By Anwuli Oseloka
On the 1st Of March 2023, the Ikeja Local Government organized a free Prostate Cancer Sensitization program for men at the secretariat.
The aim was to create awareness, offer counselling, and empower men to take proactive steps in fighting the disease.
Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers affecting men worldwide, with significant implications for individual health, families, and communities. IkejaBird spoke with the Deputy Director Nursing Services Mrs. Adeleke. R. B who gave a full insight about the initiative.
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What are the early warning signs and symptoms of prostate cancer that men should be aware of?
Firstly, every man should try and observe their body system. As for prostate cancer, they need to know the number of times they urinate on a daily basis so if they tend to urinate more often on a daily basis than usual, then they should take it seriously. Obesity is also another thing that may lead to early prostate cancer. Today’s screening is not just for prostate cancer but also check their sugar level to know if they are diabetic. We are giving them health education on lifestyle modification, the type of food to eat, alcohol intake etc.
At what age should a man go for prostate cancer test or screening?
From above the age of 45.
What if a man is not sexually active, and is 45 years, and takes preventive measures, is he still at risk of having prostate cancer?
If it is his in family genes, he may be prone to it. Findings have also shown that tall men are also prone to having prostate cancer and hormonal imbalance. However, there are many men who are 45 years and above that do not have prostate cancer.
What are the risk factors associated with prostate cancer? Are there any preventive measures?
When you want to urinate, ensure you do that immediately. Do not allow too much urine in the bladder because you would be straining the bladder. Learn to change your lifestyle, exercise regularly, eat lots of vegetables, drink lots of water, reduce excessive fat intake, increase Vitamin D intake, stay sexually active as a married man to your partner. Sexual activity increases blood flow leading to active functioning of the cells.
How often should a man go for screening and tests once above the age of 45?
At least once in a year. So anywhere they see a free screening or can visit the hospital, they should do it.
What treatment options are available for prostate cancer?
Based on the level of the prostate cancer, some may just need drugs, others may need chemotherapy, while others may need Chemo. So, you need to go for a screening / test first so you know the treatment to be administered.
How does prostate cancer impact men’s physical, emotional and mental wellbeing?
Sometimes they have difficulty during urination i.e. the urine is being restricted from coming out because of the cancer. Also, there is severe mutilation during urination. When they can not urinate, the kidney may be affected because the urine stays long in the bladder which is not supposed to be and this may likely lead to swollen legs. All these may not allow a man to function properly in his daily activities.
Are the drugs being administered today for free?
Of course it is all free, the local government is covering for everything ie the screening, logistics, drugs etc. However, it’s temporal, if the man needs more afterwards he can go to the hospital for further checkup and administration of drugs.
What are the most common myths or misconceptions about prostate cancer?
Some people do not believe prostate cancer exists. They believe when you go for treatment it would make them impotent while some are aware and do not want to be treated.
How often does the Local government of Ikeja plan on having this sensitization program?
The local government plans on organizing such free sensitization program quarterly every year. The Health Education department in the Local government on a regular basis also carries out sensitization programs on other diseases and treatments as well.
In conclusion, the essence of Prostate Cancer Sensitization Program by the local government is to empower communities with knowledge, resources, and support in the fight against prostate cancer. Finally, men should ensure to live a healthy life as advised by the Deputy Director of Nursing services to reduce the chances of having prostate cancer and visit the hospital once a year once above the age of 45.
