For years, prostate cancer can be developing in men yet show no signs until the disease has advanced and become more difficult to treat.
Although common in older men (60 years and above), family physician specialist at Opstra Medical Group, Dr Nathan Kwablah, says prostate cancer can begin growing from as early as age 40, urging Ghanaian men to take screening seriously instead of waiting to experience symptoms before seeking medical attention.
The prostate cancer burden
Globally, prostate cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among men after lung cancer and the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths among men.
More than 1.4 million men worldwide were diagnosed with the disease in 2022, with nearly 397,000 deaths recorded, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
In Ghana, an estimated 2,395 new cases and 1,233 deaths were recorded in 2022, with the disease accounting for about a quarter of new cancer cases affecting men across the country in recent times.
What is prostate cancer?
Dr Kwablah explains that prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate gland, located just below the bladder, which helps to partly produce fluids that make up the semen in men, grow abnormally and uncontrollably, invading nearby tissues and spreading to other parts of the body.
Risk factors
According to Dr Kwablah, the risk of developing prostate cancer comprises both modifiable and non-modifiable factors.
Non-modifiable factors:
- Age: Risk of prostate cancer increases as men grow older. Most cases occur in men aged 65 and above.
- Black race: Men of African descent have a higher risk.
- Family history: Having a father or brother who has had prostate cancer increases a man’s risk.
- Genetics: Certain inherited genetic factors may increase susceptibility.
Modifiable factors:
- Unhealthy eating habits
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
Signs and symptoms
Dr Kwablah says prostate cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages, making it difficult to detect without appropriate assessment.
However, progressively, symptoms of the disease may include:
- A weak urine stream
- Frequent urination, particularly at night
- Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
- Dribbling after urination
- Blood in the urine
- Persistent back or bone pain
Understanding PSA screening
The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, Dr Kwablah says, is the most recommended test to establish one’s prostate cancer status.
The blood test measures the level of protein produced by the prostate and helps identify men who may need further investigation for prostate cancer.
Dr Kwablah says all men 40 years and above must undertake a PSA test at least once every year.
“Once you get it done, your numbers will advise your doctor as to what next you need to do.”
“Screening for prostate cancer is very important because once you start developing it, you will not have any symptoms. Symptoms develop when it’s often too late,” he cautions.
Six changes men can make to reduce risk
Dr Kwablah encourages men to take greater responsibility for their health by:
1. Going for regular health checks: Consider prostate cancer screening from age 40, particularly if there is a family history as well as other chronic conditions.
2. Eating a healthy diet: Choose a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits and other nutritious foods.
3. Exercise regularly: Make physical activity part of everyday life.
4. Reduce alcohol consumption: Avoid excessive alcohol intake.
5. Quit smoking: Seek help to stop smoking.
6. Maintaining a healthy weight: Adopt habits that support a healthy body weight.
Key takeaway
Early detection of prostate cancer can improve the chances of successful treatment and help men maintain their quality of life.
“Prostate cancer is causing a lot of damage to men in this country. Let’s take charge of our health and screen the enemy to live healthier lives.
“Once you hit the age of 40, please do a PSA test to screen for prostate cancer. Once we catch it early, it can be cured so that you can continue to have meaningful, healthy lives with your partners and family,” Dr Kwablah urges.
BY ABIGAIL ANNOH
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