Strong men take action: new CANSA campaign encourages early detection of prostate cancer

Ask AI 4minThe Cancer Association of South Africa is launching the "Strong Men Take Action" campaign in November to motivate men to take charge of their health and emphasise the significance of early prostate cancer detection.

This November, the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) will launch its ‘Strong Men Take Action’ campaign, encouraging men to pay attention to changes in their bodies and seek medical attention immediately.

It’s normal to feel nervous about a potential diagnosis, but the campaign encourages men to get over any fear, embarrassment, or misconceptions that might keep them from getting medical help by reminding them that early detection could save their lives.

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men globally and in South African men, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 17 (National Cancer Registry 2024). Research also indicates that the risk for aggressive prostate cancer is higher in black men. The campaign debunks myths about the causes of cancer in certain communities, which is a medical condition that is treatable if detected early.

As it may develop without obvious symptoms in its early stages, conversations about personal risk and appropriate cancer screening are important. “Men who are diagnosed also need emotional support,” Lorraine Govender, CANSA National Manager of Health Programmes, explains.

Stuart Hopwood had no symptoms when he was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer. His experience highlights the importance of regular health checks and discussing appropriate cancer screening with a healthcare professional.

Says Hopwood, “Feeling well can be deceiving. My diagnosis came through a routine PSA blood test requested by my GP. It came as a major shock as I felt fine, and I really battled to come to terms with the diagnosis.”

Hopwood’s experience has made him a firm advocate for taking action: “Simply have yourself tested regularly, as early detection can change the outcome. Men tend to have the idea that we are strong, and nothing can harm us,” he says.

He believes this mindset makes it harder for men to talk about their health or seek help.

“My advice to all men is that we need to take our health seriously,” says Hopwood. “Older men can take a leaf out of younger men’s books, as they seem more comfortable talking to male friends about personal concerns.”

For Hopwood, support from his wife, children and close friends has been important in coping with the effects of cancer and treatment.

“You can look fine, but emotionally and internally you are suffering with aches, pains and fatigue,” he says.

“Sometimes all a cancer patient needs are someone to lend an ear. Families, friends, colleagues and communities can help by listening without judgement and encouraging men to seek professional advice or counselling. Practical support might include helping someone find a service, arranging transport or accompanying him to an appointment.”

CANSA Care Centres offer a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test that can help identify elevated PSA levels, which may indicate prostate cancer. Although this is not always the case, a healthcare professional does need to investigate it.

*Annually, from age 40 for all men at high risk of prostate cancer: men with more than one first-degree relative (father, brother or son) who had prostate cancer at an early age (younger than 65 years).

*Annually, from age 45 for all males who are at moderate risk of prostate cancer: men with a history of prostate cancer on either the mother’s or father’s side, or with a first-degree relative (father, brother, or son) diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age (younger than 65 years)

*Once every two years, for all males from age 50.

It is important for men to know what their body feels like; if they are younger than the indicated screening age and notice a change in their prostate or testicles, the issue should be examined by a medical professional. Testicular cancer is less common than prostate cancer but remains an important concern for younger men.

Men from the onset of puberty – 15 to 49 years – need to examine their testicles each month, preferably after a bath or shower. A healthcare professional should assess any lump, swelling, discomfort, or unexplained change in a testicle’s size or texture promptly.

CANSA helps bring conversations about prostate and testicular cancer into public spaces through its annual partnership with the Hollard Daredevil Run, which promotes awareness and funding for screening services, as well as this year’s Takealot ‘Check Your Package’ awareness campaign.

Humour, visibility and collective participation challenge stigma and encourage men to take their health seriously. CANSA also provides cancer information and free counselling and support groups to people affected by cancer and their families, and CANSA Care Homes offer accommodation for patients receiving treatment far from home.”

“Strong men take action. Men are invited to take care of their health by taking the next step,” Govender concludes.

*For more information, please contact Lucy Balona, Head of Marketing and Communication at CANSA, at email [email protected]. Call 011 616 7662 or cellphone 082 459 5230.