September shines spotlight on prostate cancer

LIFESTYLE NEWS - September is recognised globally as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month – a time to break the silence around the disease, share clear facts, and empower men to take action, whether they are at risk or already on their cancer journey.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men.

While highly treatable when detected early, too many South African men are still diagnosed at a late stage, when the disease is no longer curable.

Awareness campaigns

This month sees a number of awareness drives rolling out across the country. One of the most eye-catching is the Hollard Daredevil Run, taking place on 31 October. The event encourages men to talk more openly about their health – particularly prostate and testicular cancers – by running 5km dressed only in a purple Speedo.

Funds raised go to the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa (PCF) to support awareness, screening and research in under-resourced communities. Entries are open at www.ticketpro.co.za

The Prostate Cancer Foundation also spearheads Suit Up September, which invites men and women across South Africa to wear a suit and a badge on a chosen day to show their support for prostate cancer awareness.

Find out more at prostate-ca.co.za.

Making men’s health fun

“I think one of the special things about the Hollard Daredevil Run is that men are very difficult to talk to about health. But when you add some fun and give them a dare, suddenly they start to engage,” says Andrew Oberholzer, CEO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

“We have to make men’s health fun in order to spark that conversation, which is really unique.”

The reality in South Africa

Globally, about 6.6% of all male deaths are linked to prostate cancer. In South Africa, this number is thought to be as high as 13%.

“Men are often diagnosed too late. In South Africa, most present with late-stage prostate cancer when the disease is no longer curable,” says Lorraine Govender, Cansa National Manager: Health Programmes.

“Early detection through screening can make all the difference between full recovery and a terminal diagnosis. Yet in many communities, there is no access to free or low-cost screening and public awareness is minimal. Silence and stigma keep men away from the clinic.”

The importance of early detection

If prostate cancer is caught before it spreads, more than 99% of men are still alive five years after diagnosis.

Once it spreads, this survival rate drops to around 30% – a stark reminder of the importance of regular screening.

A simple PSA blood test can help detect early warning signs. Men at higher risk – including Black African men and those with a family history of breast or prostate cancer – are advised to start annual screening from the age of 40. For men at average risk, screening should start from 45.

Take action

Whether it’s putting on a purple Speedo for the Daredevil Run, suiting up to raise awareness, or booking your (or your partner’s) annual PSA test, make this Prostate Cancer Awareness Month one that gets more men and families talking, sharing, and taking action.

For more information, visit prostate-ca.co.za and cansa.org.za. Details about the Hollard Daredevil Run can be found at hollard.co.za/daredevilrun.

CEO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation Andrew Oberholzer having his PSA test.