Prostate cancer awareness urged amid rising cases in Africa

Health experts in Ghana and South Africa are raising alarms regarding the rising prevalence and low awareness of prostate cancer.

In Sunyani, Ghana, a community health outreach organized by Sompa FM saw over 800 residents participate in free screenings for various conditions. Dr. Kelvin Gidisu, a urologist at Bosomtwi Urology Hospital, noted an increase in prostate cases and urged the public to adopt preventative habits, such as frequent water consumption and avoiding holding urine for long periods. He emphasized that regular specialist consultations are vital for early detection.

In South Africa, prostate cancer has become the most common cancer and the second deadliest among men. Despite this, studies indicate a significant lack of awareness; in some regions, fewer than one in four men had heard of the disease prior to diagnosis. Data from the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa shows that one in four Black men and one in eight white men will be diagnosed in their lifetime. Experts warn that because early-stage prostate cancer often presents no symptoms, regular screening is essential for survival.