Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men. The month of November is dedicated to raising awareness about these conditions. Through an awareness campaign held simultaneously in Cotonou and Parakou, the SRTB Women’s Association draws the attention of male staff to the risks, symptoms and prevention measures for prostate cancer, prostate cancer, penis and testicles.
Prostate cancer is a condition that occurs as a man ages. Before the age of 50, the disease is uncommon and the average age of diagnosis is 67 years. The pathology manifests itself in the prostate gland which is an organ of the male reproductive system. Age, family history, ethnic origin and certain lifestyles are some risk factors that increase its occurrence. This is what urologist andrologist Magloire Yévi explained at length to the SRTB workers mobilized for the information session this Friday, November 29.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary from man to man. “If you experience urinary problems such as difficulty urinating, frequent need to urinate, especially at night, weak or interrupted urinary stream, pain or burning sensation during urination blood in urine or semen . If you experience pain in your lower back or hips, you may be developing cancer”, detailed Magloire Yévi during his communication.
The specialist also shared with the audience the means to fight the disease. He recommends early detection to prevent prostate cancer:
“It is recommended to consult a urologist once a year to carry out a blood, urine and ultrasound examination. In the event of a normal examination, the doctor will schedule an appointment for you in one year. Otherwise, you will be quickly taken care of. Prostate cancer is curable”
According to the professor, it is also possible to prevent this disease by respecting certain rules of life such as: “aadopt a healthy diet by avoiding the consumption of animal fats, avoid obesity, tobacco, alcohol consumption, practice physical activity regularly and take care of your mental and physical health by reducing stress”.
Preserve lives
In Benin, many men are still hesitant to talk about their health or to consult a doctor. By initiating this session, the Women’s Association intends to break taboos and encourage men to get screened early. “For this month of November dedicated to male cancers, we wanted to put men in the spotlight. It is the lives of our brothers, our colleagues and our spouses that we want to save,” noted the president of the Amicale Cécile Tossa Gnangon.
Around a hundred media professionals were mobilized on the Cotonou and Parakou sites for these awareness campaigns. “Prostate cancer is a silent killer. Prevention is better than cure. I have already registered for screening”, confided Alain Assogba, executive of the SRTB. “I am delighted with this initiative from the Women’s Association.
