Encouraging Men to Tackle Prostate Cancer Together

#TackleCancerTogether #CANSAMensHealth
#ProstateCancerAwareness

Statistics

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men globally and the number one cancer affecting all South African men (National Cancer Registry 2017), with 1 in 17 men being at risk for diagnosis in their lifetime.

Who is Most at Risk?

• International and local research indicates that the risk for aggressive prostate cancer is higher in black African men.
• It’s vital to note that prostate cancer tends to run in families. CANSA encourages men to get to know their family history of cancer and symptoms. We urge men with a family history of cancer to not only take responsibility for their own health, by going for prostate screening, but to also encourage other male relatives (and friends) to get checked. #TackleCancerTogether
• If a father, brother, or son has had prostate cancer he needs to encourage other males in his family to go for check-ups from at least 40, due to their higher risk of the disease or if their mother, grandmothers, sisters or aunts had breast cancer, as this is also a risk factor. #TackleCancerTogether
• There is a relationship between a diet high in animal fat and protein (especially red meat), and prostate cancer, so it is important for men to eat and drink smart and lead a balanced, active lifestyle to lower their cancer risk. Also to avoid known carcinogens such as tobacco, alcohol and environmental carcinogens.

Early Detection Saves Lives

Prostate cancer is detectable with a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test. Prostate Specific Antigen PSA is a normal enzyme produced by the glandular tissue of the prostate – it’s always present in the blood, however, a reading of three or higher may indicate inflammation of the prostate or even cancer.

Sons whose fathers have not had prostate cancer should encourage their fathers to go for regular PSA tests from the age of 45, as well as grandfathers, uncles, family friends, neighbours or even colleagues.

PSA blood tests are available, by appointment, at CANSA Care Centres nationwide for R180. CANSA keeps costs low to assist with covering the consumables used to conduct the screening. You can also enquire with your local health practitioner. Patients with medical aid benefits can claim from their medical aids once they have paid for the screening. Testing can also be done via local health clinics if you present with symptoms.

#TackleCancerTogether

CANSA would like to thank Hollard Daredevil Run for raising awareness of prostate and testicular cancer and for sponsoring 240 CANSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) PSA screenings to detect prostate cancer in Gauteng and Western Cape and for making the following webinar and monthly ‘Men Supporting Men’ cancer support group possible.

CANSA hosted a Prostate Cancer Webinar ‘Let’s Get Real About Men and Prostate Cancer’ via Zoom on 18 November 2021 to discuss the experience of a SA prostate cancer patient, with experts in the field sharing their guidance and experience.

CANSA’s ‘Men Supporting Men’ cancer support group was lauched on Saturday, 27 November 2021. What makes this support group special is the fact that it is facilitated and attended by men with different kinds of cancers. The need for men to come together in a space where they can feel comfortable and understood will be an opportunity for many men to reach out and join these online monthly sessions. All men that have cancer, are in remission or who have been a survivor for some time, are welcome to attend. Upcoming monthly sessions will be advertised on the CANSA Website.

Online Resources and Tele Counselling

CANSA also offers various support services through our dedicated virtual and online support groups as well as our tele counselling to men affected by cancer.

Get in touch with that family member,
friend or colleague and share this information
Let’s #TackleCancerTogether!