As the world observes Men’s Health Awareness Month, new findings from the recent 1Life Insurance Movemberpoll reveals a concerning reality – only 14% of South African men surveyed undergo regular health screenings. Worryingly, 33% of men reported that they only seek medical screening when experiencing health concerns, highlighting a critical gap in preventative healthcare practices.
The National Cancer Registry reports that men in South Africa face a lifetime risk of 1 in 16 for developing prostate cancer, with black men facing a greater risk of developing aggressive forms. This disease is the most common cancer among men globally and prostate cancer incidences continue to rise. The unfortunate reality is that early detection is prohibited by the lack of regular screening which allows for early intervention and in most cases even a cure.
Poor diet and inactivity can increase the risk of getting prostate cancer
Key risk factors for prostate cancer include age, ethnicity, family history and obesity, to name a few. Poor dietary habits combined with less physical activity, alcohol consumption and smoking can elevate the risk of getting prostate cancer.
“As South Africa’s urbanisation continues to grow, people are substituting fruits and vegetables for more fast food, sugary drinks, and processed meals which has a huge impact in increasing the risk of prostate cancer,” says Dr Avron Urison, Chief Medical Officer at 1Life Insurance.
However, support is within reach. Yet, sadly upon further engagement with respondents 45% say they were unsure where to begin when it comes to health screenings.
“Health related education is vital, and open conversations about men’s health are encouraged. With the right support, men are more likely to share their health concerns with those closest to them,” notes Dr Urison.
The importance of preventative health
Prostate cancer is often hereditary. Therefore, it is vital for men to be aware of their family cancer history, especially if an immediate family member has had prostate or breast cancer before. Although most enlargements of the prostate are not cancerous, regular screening is crucial for early detention as they can identify prostate cancer risk factors before they escalate into life-threatening conditions. Preventative healthcare not only saves lives but also reduces the long-term impact of lost quality of life for families and communities. Disease disrupts a family’s financial stability and impacts the already heavily burdened healthcare system and so this Men’s Health Awareness Month (Movember) serves as a reminder that health is not something to be addressed only in times of crisis but to be proactively managed to ensure early detection and protecting one’s financial future.
It is therefore imperative that South African men take the necessary precautionary measures and are encouraged to:
- Schedule annual health screenings for prostate cancer and other related diseases, even in the absence of symptoms.
- It is never too late to start living a healthier lifestyle. Adopt healthier lifestyle choices, including balanced diets and regular exercise.
- Speak openly about health concerns to break the stigma around men’s health.
“As we raise awareness on men’s health, this Movember, we also encourage South African men to take proactive steps toward healthier and longer lives. Let us continue to shine a spotlight on the importance of preventative healthcare and the urgent need for lifestyle change amongst South African men,” concludes Dr Urison.
SUPPLIED.
