Men urged to normalise early prostate cancer screening

MEN have been urged to normalise prostate cancer screening amid concerns the disease has become the second most commonly diagnosed among them, accounting for 11 percent of cancer-related deaths.

Health experts say late detection often leads to fatal outcomes, particularly among men, which emphasises the urgent need for early screening, which can dramatically improve treatment success rates.

Prominent clinical oncologist, Dr Tatenda Chingonzoh, says men should normalise routine prostate cancer screening, highlighting that early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Prostate cancer remains a critical health issue, particularly for black men, who are disproportionately affected by the disease.

Dr Chingonzoh, founder of the Leading Initiatives Fighting Cancer Together (Lift) Foundation, underscored the urgency of this matter. She recommended that black men begin screening between the ages of 40 and 45, while men of other racial backgrounds should start at age 50.

This recommendation is based on evidence showing that prostate cancer is often more aggressive in black men and tends to strike at an earlier age compared to their white counterparts. Dr Chingonzoh warned that prostate cancer can be a silent killer.

“Many men delay seeking treatment even when they experience symptoms such as a weak urine stream, frequent night-time urination, or even blood in the urine,” she said.

“This reluctance can be fatal because the cancer would be slowly progressing and by the time the patient seeks help the cancer is already so advanced, making it difficult to treat.”

Dr Chingonzoh emphasised that poor health-seeking behaviours among men contribute to late-stage diagnoses, which drastically reduce survival rates.

She advocated for a proactive approach, encouraging men to discuss screening options with their general practitioners.

“Early detection is crucial, the sooner we identify the disease, the better the chances of survival. Men should not wait until symptoms become severe, they should take charge of their health,” she added.

“General practitioners offer screenings and I encourage all men above the age of 40 to get screened, especially if there is a history of prostate cancer in their families.”

Addressing the psychological barriers surrounding prostate cancer, Dr Chingonzoh noted that for many men, the diagnosis can feel like a direct threat to their manhood and sexuality.

“The stigma attached to prostate issues often makes men hesitant to seek help, men are afraid to talk about issues that may seem to be attacking their sexuality so there is a need to combat that stigma in the society,” she said.

“Families should also be supportive as they play a vital role in encouraging their loved ones to prioritise their health. It’s essential that men feel supported in seeking help and discussing their concerns openly.”

As awareness around prostate cancer grows, Dr Chingonzoh remains hopeful that more men will take the necessary steps toward screening and early intervention. She urged prostate cancer survivors to share their stories with other men so as to encourage them.

“We can change the narrative around prostate cancer, with education, support, and early detection, we can save lives. Those who have survived the disease should also share their stories and support their counterparts,” said Dr Chingonzoh.

As the conversation around prostate health continues, it is imperative for communities to come together, fostering an environment where men feel comfortable addressing their health concerns.

November is a month dedicated to addressing men’s health, with a particular focus on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health.

Various initiatives, such as ‘No-Shave November’ and the ‘Movember movement’, aim to raise awareness about these issues, encouraging men to grow their beards in support of those affected by prostate cancer.