Prostate cancer, a significant health concern, ranks as one of the most prevalent cancers among men, coming second only to lung cancer. This alarming statistic was highlighted by Dr Thulani Nkosi, a urologist at Mediclinic Newcastle, dedicated to raising awareness and promoting early detection to combat this serious disease.
To bring this critical issue to light, Dr Nkosi hosted a prostate cancer awareness event on Saturday, 8 June 2024, at his practice on Dunton Street, Newcastle.
The event, focused on men’s health, featured partnerships with Lancet Laboratories and a representative from Astellas Oncology. Together, they educated attendees on prostate cancer and offered 100 free PSA tests.
The PSA test, a key screening tool for prostate cancer, measures the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. PSA is a protein produced by both cancerous and non-cancerous tissue in the prostate, a small gland located below the bladder in males.
During the event, Dr Nkosi discussed the critical importance of prostate cancer awareness, emphasising the severity of the issue among local men. “In Newcastle, I see an average of eight to twelve patients with prostate cancer each week, totalling around 50 patients a month,” he reported.
Moreover, considering the high incidence of prostate cancer cases both in Newcastle and nationwide, Dr Nkosi underscored the urgent need for increased awareness and education on the subject.
He stressed that regular check-ups, combined with a comprehensive understanding of the early symptoms and underlying causes of prostate cancer, are crucial for timely detection and effective treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes and saving lives.
Speaking on why this form of cancer is so prevalent, Dr Nkosi explained that while lifestyle factors contribute, prostate cancer primarily stems from genetic predispositions. “Prostate cancer is hereditary, linked to family history, hormone levels, and genetic mutations. It’s crucial for individuals to be aware of their family history and start getting tested from the age of 40,” he advised.
Therefore, with the above in mind, Dr Nkosi provided men with a checklist of prostate cancer symptoms to watch out for:
- Urinary difficulties
- Erectile dysfunction
- Blood in urine
- Blood in semen
Furthermore, Dr Nkosi highlighted that early screening allows for prompt treatment, preventing the cancer from spreading and potentially safeguarding the patient from a life-threatening situation.
However, if a patient is diagnosed with prostate cancer, advancements in medical science have made a range of treatment options available. According to Dr Nkosi, the appropriate treatment varies depending on the stage at which the cancer is detected.
Therefore, he elaborated that the treatment modalities employed include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and hormone therapy, each tailored to address the specific needs of the patient and the progression of the disease.
These sophisticated medical interventions highlight the necessity for early detection and continuous medical monitoring to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.
Concluding the event, attendees walked away with a wealth of valuable insights into prostate cancer. They were also afforded the opportunity to undergo immediate PSA testing, providing an essential proactive measure for their health.
This immediate testing offered participants reassurance and peace of mind, knowing they had taken a significant step towards protecting their well-being. The event not only educated the community but also empowered men to prioritise their health.
With the above in mind, what are your thoughts? Share your views in the comments section below.
Comments 1
The harsh reality of prostate cancer is most men even know they have it because you don’t feel sick , and by the time they become aware of the symptoms mentioned, the cancer can be at an advanced stage. Most men are sh!t scared of needles to do the PSA test, never mind the dreaded DRE…..
I was diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer in 2013 and the cancer was in remission… until May 2024 when I was diagnosed positive again. From 2013 I went for PSA test every 6 months and that is how it was again picked up in the early stages.
Prostate cancer is not a death sentence when diagnosed and treated early……. yes, it is a shock to hear but it is not a death sentence . Swallow your pride and forget about being a macho man… get tested… NOW… not next week.. NOW