Frequent testing for prostate cancer remains critical

Men’s healthcare should be under the spotlight more often, says Vanessa Snow, head of Medical Affairs at Janssen South Africa.

Differences between the sexes mean men are more likely to suffer from a variety of conditions. Challenges that men are most likely to encounter include diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancers of the prostate, testicles and colon. Then, there’s also alopecia, hypertension, high cholesterol, incontinence, urinary tract infections and issues with sexual performance.

“Men are less likely than women to visit the doctor, and this means preventable conditions are often caught too late for effective intervention,” says Snow.

And conditions like prostate cancer often provide a 100% recovery rate measured at a five-year survival milestone and remains well into the upper 90% curve for decades after. “But it must be detected as early as possible,” she adds.

Statistically, South Africa has seen incidences of prostate cancer rise by almost 50% between 2007 and 2018. “It remains the most common cancer among men, and 2018 figures suggested an increase of more than 50% in a decade, from 2007, to 68 men per population segment of 100 000,” reveals Snow.

Prostate cancer also accounts for 13% of all cancer-related deaths among men. Ageing remains a factor, and as men approach 70 years of age, almost 70% of men will encounter prostate cancer in some form or another.

Initially, men may not experience symptoms of prostate cancer. It grows very slowly and can be benign, or very aggressive. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include frequent nighttime urination, difficulty initiating or stopping urination, weak or interrupted flow, pain during urination or ejaculation, and blood in urine or semen. Advanced stages may cause deep pain in the lower back, hips or thighs.

Risk factors include age, ethnicity, family history, obesity and certain dietary habits. A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, weight management and reduced intake of red meat and high-fat dairy can lower risk.

Prostate cancer can often be treated successfully, especially if it is detected early. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy and hormone therapy. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used.

“It is important for men to have regular engagement with their doctors about their risk of developing prostate cancer, and to discuss the benefits and risks of screening,” says Snow.

This is why, she notes, that while annual days of observation focus on healthcare challenges, men must be encouraged to visit healthcare professionals more often throughout the year. “We must bridge the gap in healthcare disparities and encourage men to take an active role in their health. A culture that supports regular health check-ups and open conversations about health concerns can significantly improve outcomes for men across the spectrum of diseases, particularly in conditions like prostate cancer where early detection is paramount.”

Image credit: Freepik

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