It’s of great concern that the number of men being diagnosed with late stage cancer is on the rise.
It is estimated that 1 in 19 South African men will develop prostate cancer. Knowledge is power and can change the lives of men drastically if they are aware of early warning signs and symptoms of male cancers.
Read more about the 5 major cancers effecting men in South Africa today.
Men need to be pro-active about their health and should recognise warning signs. We encourage monthly testicular self-examinations, annual medical check-ups and cancer screening for early detection, as symptoms don’t always present until cancer has spread. Men also need to lead a healthy, balanced lifestyle, cutting out lifestyle factors that increase their cancer risk.
It’s of great concern that the number of men being diagnosed with late stage cancer is on the rise.
PROSTATE CANCER
Men need to go for simple screening tests to detect Prostate Cancer (see guidelines below). Screening results in early detection, enabling more effective treatment and a better chance of recovery. Although most enlargements of the prostate are not cancerous, regular screening is essential.
Download more in-depth information and a Fact Sheet on Prostate Cancer here.
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by both cancerous (malignant) and non-cancerous (benign) prostate tissue. High PSA levels may indicate inflammation of the prostate or even cancer.
A blood test or finger prick test can establish if PSA levels are raised. Download more information here.
Digitial Rectal Exam
Men aged 50 (40 – 45 for those at high risk, such as men with a family history of Prostate Cancer) should be examined annually.
A doctor examines the prostate through the rectum to check for any prostate lumps or abnormalities.
SYMPTOMS OF PROSTATE CANCER
Prostate cancer often occurs without any symptoms, but symptoms are likely if in the advanced stages: frequent urination (especially at night), straining to pass urine, painful or burning sensation during urination or ejaculation, leaking urine, bloody urine/semen, possible deep pain in the lower back, hips or upper thighs (in advanced stages of cancer).
Here is a simple checklist:
Make sure to speak to one of our OBIN financial advisors about adding (or increasing) Severe/Critical Illness Cover to your current life insurance policy should you need cover in the event of prostate cancer diagnoses and care. Remember that treatment can be costly and burdensome. Unfortunately most medical aid schemes do not fully fund treatment and care for cancer.