Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men worldwide. Statistics by the World Health Organisation (WHO) show it accounts for 14.1% of all cancers diagnosed in men in 2020. During the same year, prostate cancer claimed 375 304 lives.

Black African men are disproportionately affected by this cancer, with a 60% chance of getting the disease compared to other groups. “One in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime, with this cancer predicted to be the most common cancer amongst men in South Africa by 2030,” said Cancer Association of South Africa member Joani Sadi.

There is a dire need to raise awareness about the disease. When diagnosed, a large percentage of patients in South Africa already present with advanced or locally advanced prostate cancer. As found in a study by the University of the Free State, in many such cases the cancer is no longer curable.

Every man over 45 should get an annual screening. Those in higher-risk groups, such as Black males and men with a family history of breast or prostate cancer, should begin screening at age 40.

A PSA or Prostate-Specific Antigen blood test is used to screen for prostate cancer. The prostate gland produces a protein-specific antigen (PSA). Elevated PSA levels could be indicative of prostate cancer.

There’s a dire need to make sure every South African man over 40 fully understands the importance and process of prostate cancer screening. “Only 22% of the men have ever heard of prostate cancer before being diagnosed with the disease, which reveals a lack of awareness,” said Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa CEO, Andrew Oberholzer.

Common symptoms of prostate cancer. Photo: check4cancer.com

Special events like the Hollard Daredevil Run are critical. “They generate much-needed educational opportunities on a national level for men and boys to talk about prostate and testicular cancers.”

The annual Hollard Daredevil Run sees men and boys running 5km dressed only in a purple speedo and trainers, to raise awareness about prostate and testicular cancers. Proceeds go to the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa to fund testing in under-resourced areas and increase awareness, support and research.

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