Prostate cancer has been reported as a silent epidemic that continues to affect men globally, with alarming statistics shedding light on its increasing prevalence.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020, prostate cancer accounted for 14.1% of all cancers diagnosed in men, with over 1.4 million new cases and approximately 375 000 deaths reported worldwide.
However, when examining the broader statistics, the figures become even more sobering for black men, who are said to face a disproportionate burden from this disease.
Recent studies also indicate that one in six black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime, in contrast to one in eight white men.
Globally, black men are 70% more likely to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis than their white counterparts and twice as likely to succumb to the disease.
In South Africa, the statistics are particularly disconcerting; while prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men of all races, black African men often present later with more advanced and aggressive forms of the disease.
A study conducted by the University of Free State also revealed a concerning gap in knowledge among men regarding prostate cancer. It was found that only 22% of participants were aware of the disease before their diagnosis.
Andrew Oberholzer, CEO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa, further stressed the importance of screening among SA men.
He emphasised that many South African men are diagnosed with advanced stages of prostate cancer, which is no longer curable at this stage.
“We must ensure that every South African man over 40 understands the importance and process of prostate cancer screening.”
Professor Shingai Mutambirwa, head of the Urology Department at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University and a founding member of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa, states: “All the data shows very clearly that if you catch prostate cancer early — requiring screening — you have a 95% chance of being cured, and you’ll have a similar life expectancy to someone without cancer.”
This further highlights the importance of early detection through routine screenings, particularly a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, which takes only seconds yet could potentially save a life.
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa recommends that all men over the age of 45 should undergo annual screening, while higher-risk groups —including black men and those with a family history of prostate cancer — should begin screenings from the age of 40.
It is explained that events such as the annual Hollard Daredevil Run play a pivotal role in not only raising funds but also in promoting awareness of prostate and testicular cancers. Participants, dressed only in a purple Speedo and takkies, run 5km to spark conversations around these often-taboo subjects.
“Events like the Hollard Daredevil Run are critical for generating educational opportunities on a national level, encouraging men and boys to discuss prostate and testicular cancers,” says Oberholzer.
The Star