Prostate cancer diagnoses rise in Ghana and Guyana

Health officials in Ghana and Guyana are raising alarms over high rates of late-stage prostate cancer diagnoses, emphasizing the critical need for early screening.

In Ghana, consultant urologist Dr. Kwadwo Ntiamoah Ampadu reported that over 80% of prostate cancer patients at certain hospitals present with the disease at an advanced stage. He noted that many men wait for physical symptoms to appear before seeking help, often around the age of 70 to 72. Because early-stage prostate cancer can be asymptomatic, patients frequently arrive when the disease is no longer curable, limiting medical options to palliative care.

Similarly, in Guyana, Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony announced that prostate cancer has become the leading cancer diagnosed among men, accounting for 31% of cases. Data revealed that out of nearly 600 prostate biopsies conducted over the preceding year, approximately 400 returned positive results. Dr. Anthony urged increased public awareness and early testing to improve treatment prospects and prevent mortality.