Prostate cancer is a significant health concern for men, particularly those aged 40 and above.

According to renowned consultant oncologist Dr. Fred Okuku from the Uganda Cancer Institute, early detection of prostate cancer is crucial for better treatment outcomes.

Men with a family history of prostate cancer are at a higher risk, and cases involving both fathers and sons are on the rise.

The Importance of Early Screening

Dr. Okuku advises men to prioritize prostate cancer screening as they reach 40.

He explains, “Prostate cancer is the main cancer among men at age 40; we recommend that you start having your screening done.”

This is especially important since Uganda Cancer Institute in Mulago diagnoses about 3,000 new prostate cancer cases annually, making it the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men.

Family History: A Risk Factor for Prostate Cancer

Men with a family history of prostate cancer are at an increased risk, particularly when both fathers and sons are affected.

Dr. Okuku stresses that genetics play a significant role in determining whether a man may develop prostate cancer.

Early screening is key to detecting the disease in its early stages, which greatly improves treatment outcomes.

Early Detection Saves Lives

Detecting prostate cancer early is the key to successful treatment.

Dr. Okuku highlights that “early treatment will improve the outcome,” making early detection critical for better recovery.

With advancements in treatment, including radical surgery and newer radiotherapy techniques, men diagnosed early have a higher chance of being cured.

Common Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer symptoms can vary depending on the stage of the disease. Early signs often overlap with those of an enlarged prostate and include:

Frequent urination
Blood in urine
Backaches

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional and undergo regular checkups, including the PSA test, to catch the disease early.

Prevention: A Healthy Lifestyle

Dr. Okuku also emphasizes the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. He recommends:

Eating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits
Regular exercise
Maintaining a healthy weight
Avoiding excessive processed meats
Staying away from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Processed meats, in particular, pose a risk for other non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, which can further complicate health.

The Growing Risk of Prostate Cancer in Uganda

With the increased life expectancy in Uganda, more cases of prostate cancer are expected in the future.

This makes early detection and prevention efforts even more critical.

Dr. Okuku stresses that “you have a chance to be cured if you are diagnosed and treated early,” further underscoring the importance of routine screenings for men aged 40 and above.

Prostate cancer is a leading health concern for men, especially those over 40, and early detection through regular screening is vital.

By adopting a healthy lifestyle and seeking early diagnosis, men can reduce their risk and improve their chances of successful treatment.

Regular checkups, including the PSA test, can save lives by catching the disease early.