Men, make your health priority
An illustration showing prostate cancer.
November is a month when men around the world raise awareness about issues related to men's health. It is done through the initiative November — an annual event involving the growing of moustaches to raise awareness on areas of prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention.
According to a report by Springer Open, prostate cancer — a type of cancer in which malignant cells form in the tissues of the prostrate; is among the leading causes of cancer-related mortalities in African and Asian males. Globally, it ranks as the second most frequently diagnosed cancer among men. About one in eight males will be diagnosed with this type of cancer in their lifetime. According to a report by Globocan, 2020, in Kenya, prostate cancer accounts for 21.9% of all new cancer cases in men.
With the strain of the African economy, prostate cancer remarkably contributes to the public health burden and is anticipated to increase with increased urbanisation and population growth.
As we start this month, it is important for men especially the older aged ones who are more vulnerable to such diseases to go for screening. Prostate cancer screening is a cost-effective strategy to promote early detection and treatment. This is essential for you may fail to get any physical signs and symptoms.
Besides the annual checkups, men are encouraged to be aware of family history of cancer. When it comes to men's health many of them do not talk or take action early enough. This poor health-seeking behaviour and their delayed presentation to health facilities leads to poor prognosis.
Women tend to lead by example in promoting the importance of men's health. Their inclusion in raising awareness can help in breaking down the barriers that surround the conversations around men's wellness. Advocacy for more public action is necessary to drive change given that men are the pillars of society. Their health not only affects entire families but also communities and even hurts the economy.
Ms Mbuthia is a student at Kisii University
