Prostate cancer is the number one cancer affecting South African men with an alarming one in 17 at risk for a diagnosis in their lifetime.
This cancer is genetic and, after extensive research, it was discovered that black African men are at a higher risk of getting aggressive prostate cancer.
There is also a relationship between a diet high in animal fat and protein and prostate cancer. Another risk factor for prostate cancer is older age.
The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) encourages men to get to know their family history of cancer and symptoms, as well as going for regular screenings.
Prostate cancer is detectable with a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, which is done by appointment at CANSA Care Centres nationwide for R180.
PSA is a normal enzyme produced by the glandular tissue of the prostate. A reading of three or higher may indicate inflammation of the prostate or even cancer.
It’s important for men to go for an annual prostate screening as it improves the chances of detecting prostate cancer in the early stages before it has spread outside the prostate.
Screening should start from the age of 45 years in men; or 40 years in black African men and in men who have a family history of prostate.
For more information visit www.cansa.org.za
