Prostate cancer on the rise – Don’t be a statistic, get tested

Honouring International Men’s Day, Urology Hospital, South Africa’s top specialised urology centre and leader in cutting-edge medical technology, is offering free prostate screenings in partnership with the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Prostate cancer affects 1, 5 million men globally each year, according to the WHO, this life-saving initiative comes at a crucial time. 

Alarming statistics show prostate cancer deaths surged by 51, 5 percent between 2008 and 2018, with a lifetime risk of one in 15 men. It accounts for 6, 6 percent of cancer deaths worldwide, and 13 percent of male cancer deaths in South Africa, where over 4, 000 men are diagnosed annually highlighting the urgency for better screening, early detection, and addressing socioeconomic factors.

ALSO READ: Prostate cancer: Higher incidence in black men highlights urgent need for increased awareness and support 

Research indicates men of African descent have the highest rates of prostate cancer incidence and mortality, driven by factors like ancestry, age, and family medical history. “Often developing without early symptoms, prostate cancer can become aggressive and spread rapidly without timely intervention- don’t wait until it’s too late, get tested,” advised Dr Lance Coetzee, Urology Hospital, Pretoria.

The Urology Hospital is offering free PSA tests and prostate screenings for International Men’s Day makes early detection accessible for more men. 

“The PSA test, a critical blood test, helps detect prostate cancer, enlargement, or infections early. For men over 40, with a family history, combining this test with a digital rectal exam provides a fuller picture of prostate health. Early detection can dramatically improve outcomes- regular testing is key, as waiting for symptoms may be too late. Proactive testing saves lives,” said Dr Coetzee. 

Requirements for free testing at Urology Hospital:

• Black men from the age of 40 who have a family history of prostate and/or breast cancer in a first-degree relative.
• Men from the age of 45 years, all other races. No men over 75 years of age.
• Testing excludes patients who have been diagnosed and/or treated for prostate cancer.

Details:

• Date: November 15 and 16
• Time: 9am to 3pm
• Location: Urology Hospital, Pretoria
• Address: 1162 Corner Grosvenor St and Pretorius St, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028

For more information and to book your spot, contact Urology Hospital on 012 423-4000 or email [email protected].