It is common for senior males to experience prostatic enlargement, many of which are benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) cases, which have symptoms similar to those of prostate cancer, such as frequent urination at night, urinary hesitancy, leaking before and after urination and pain and blood in urine. These symptoms cause disturbance to everyday life and could lead to severe complications if neglected, including incontinence, urinary tract infection, impaired kidney functions and even urethral occlusion.

Prostate cancer has become the 3rd most common cancer among Hong Kong males in which one in every 32 men would suffer from the condition. According to a survey on early examination and understanding of prostatic cancer symptoms, over 70% of the 400 respondents experienced different urination-related symptoms, but few had consulted doctors to follow up on the problems. In case of symptoms deterioration and complications, the patient might need to undergo surgery to improve urination.

Males over 50 are recommended to undergo annual prostate examination.