Dr Nor Azhari Mohd Zam, 50, the country’s only Malay-Muslim urologist, shares with Berita Harian readers on how early treatment can save lives, but delaying care or downplaying symptoms — especially men’s health issues — remains a big challenge among the Malay community in Singapore.

With over 20 years of experience in urinary and male reproductive health, he urges men to “take charge” of their health. Many patients only seek help when conditions worsen due to fear of treatment, surgery, or stigma. Urology is still considered taboo, particularly within the Malay culture, where issues such as erectile dysfunction not only affect physical health but also emotional wellbeing and marriages.

According to Singapore’s Cancer Registry (2017–2021), prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men (16.8%) , followed by colorectal (16.3%) and lung cancer (13.5%) . Many Malays dismiss symptoms like frequent urination, weak urine flow, or erectile dysfunction as normal ageing, when in fact these could indicate serious illnesses.

The situation is worrying: Cancer mortality rates for Malays have surpassed the Chinese community since 2013, making Malays the ethnic group with the highest cancer death rates. From 2017–2021, Malay cancer deaths rose to 91.3 per 100,000 people, compared to lower rates among Chinese (72.5) and Indians (55.1).

Dr Nor Azhari stresses the importance of early detection, healthy lifestyle habits, and creating a safe space to talk about men’s health without stigma. He also offers virtual consultations via Doctor Anywhere to improve accessibility but emphasizes that proper diagnosis still requires physical exams and lab tests.

“Our health is our responsibility. Don’t wait until it’s too late — seek treatment early. It can save not just your physical health, but your overall quality of life.” – Dr Nor Azhari