Men urged to take action against prostate cancer

The Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) is calling on all Namibians to unite in support of men’s health

This is as November approaches and the annual Movember campaign gears up.

CAN chief executive Rolf Hansen says Movember, a global campaign dedicated to men’s health, focuses on raising awareness and funds for the fight against prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health issues.

Hansen urges men to take proactive steps in addressing prostate cancer, which is becoming increasingly prevalent in Namibia.

“Men, be proactive, let’s fight prostate cancer this Movember,” he says.

“Prostate cancer is on the rise in our country. It’s an elephant in the room, and men tend to shy away from discussing this sensitive issue. But a simple Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test can make a significant difference.”

Hansen says the PSA test is a blood test that can help detect early signs of prostate cancer.

He encourages men over the age of 40 to get tested annually, and those with a family history of the disease to start screening as early as 35. He further advises men over the age of 50 to undergo a digital rectal examination.

“The challenge with prostate cancer is that by the time symptoms appear, the cancer is often already advanced. A proactive approach is crucial to ensure early diagnosis and avoid the severe consequences of treatment, such as a radical prostatectomy,” Hansen says.

He further acknowledges that many men fear the potential side effects of treatment, but says early detection is important to avoid more invasive procedures later on.

Hansen has also appealed to women to encourage the men in their lives to get tested.

“Wives, mothers, sisters, daughters, this is your opportunity to stand in solidarity. Help the men in your life take this important step.”

PSA tests can be done at the Cancer Association of Namibia, local Ministry of Health and Social Services clinics, or through general practitioners, adds Hansen.