THE Prostate Cancer Foundation is calling on men across Mzansi to take prostate cancer screening seriously, warning of a significant rise in cases in the coming years.
Chief executive officer of the Prostate Cancer Foundation, Andrew Oberholzer, has raised concern over what he describes as a growing "prostate cancer tsunami" that the country may soon face.
He noted that prostate cancer already accounts for about 13% of cancer-related deaths among men in Mzansi, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 15 men being diagnosed.
He cautioned that the country is currently struggling with limited capacity in diagnosis and treatment, particularly in the public healthcare sector.
"We simply do not have the resources to cope with what is coming. Prostate cancer is underdiagnosed and undertreated in South Africa, and we urgently need better data, more specialists and stronger health planning," said Oberholzer.
He added that the foundation is working on a comprehensive prostate cancer registry, which will collect national data on diagnoses, treatment stages and patient outcomes. This initiative aims to improve planning and resource allocation within the health system.
Oberholzer warned that by 2030, prostate cancer is expected to become the most common cancer among men in Mzansi, particularly in the public healthcare sector.
Call for Early Detection and Awareness
Oberholzer stresses that one of the biggest challenges is late diagnosis, as prostate cancer often develops without obvious symptoms in its early stages.
"Men are encouraged to undergo screening through a simple PSA blood test, which can help detect the disease early when it is still treatable," he said.
Screening is especially recommended for:
- Men aged 45 and older
- Men aged 40 and older with a family history of prostate or breast cancer
- Black men, who are considered at higher risk
Breaking the Fear Around Screening
Oberholzer also highlighted that many men avoid testing due to fear or stigma associated with medical checks.
However, he emphasised that early detection can save lives and prevent complications.
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Awareness and Funding Efforts
The Prostate Cancer Foundation said fundraising initiatives and awareness campaigns remain critical in supporting screening programmes and education efforts.
Events supporting the cause help fund:
- Free prostate cancer screenings
- Public awareness campaigns
- Development of the national cancer registry
Oberholzer thanked partners supporting the initiative, noting that such efforts are vital in reducing mortality rates.
