By Opesika Tetteh Puplampu
Ada, Oct. 01, GNA — Health experts in the Ada East District have urged men, particularly those aged 40 years and above, to prioritise their prostate health by undergoing regular screening for early detection of prostate cancer.
The experts made the call in an interview with the Ghana News as part of activities by the Ada East District Health Directorate to mark Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
The awareness campaign is being held under the national theme: “Prostate Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives.”
Mr Daniel Ola Ayim, Facility Head of Pediatorkope Health Centre, and Mr Raphael Kwabena Angmortey, Nutritionist and Non-Communicable Disease Coordinator for the Ada East District, led the education.
Mr Ayim said prostate cancer was among the common cancers affecting men in Ghana and that late detection could make treatment more difficult.
He urged men, especially those aged 40 years and above and those with a family history of prostate cancer, to undergo screening and seek medical attention when they noticed unusual symptoms.
He mentioned frequent urination at night, difficulty starting or stopping urination, weak urine flow, painful urination, and blood in the urine or semen as some symptoms that should not be ignored.
Mr Angmortey advised men to adopt healthy lifestyles, including engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the consumption of fatty red meat, alcohol and tobacco.
He also encouraged increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, adequate water intake, and routine medical checks as part of efforts to maintain good health and facilitate early detection of diseases.
The two health experts dispelled misconceptions that prostate cancer was caused by promiscuity, describing such beliefs as misinformation.
They encouraged wives, daughters, and sons to support their husbands and fathers to seek prostate health information and undergo screening.
The experts also cautioned men against self-medication and reliance on unapproved herbal preparations, urging those with concerns to visit Ghana Health Service facilities in the Ada East District for counselling, assessment and screening.
They said early detection and appropriate medical care could improve the management of prostate cancer.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Opesika Tetteh Puplampu, GNA