The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) launched its ‘Strong Men Take Action’ campaign this November, encouraging men to note changes in their bodies, and seek medical advice without delay. Feeling anxious about a possible diagnosis is natural, however, the campaign reminds men that early detection could save their lives, encouraging them to overcome fear, embarrassment or misconceptions that could prevent them from seeking medical advice.

“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). 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 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. Hopwood’s diagnosis came through a routine PSA blood test requested by his GP.

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 is what makes it harder for men to have conversations 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.”

Know your body and act on changes

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.

CANSA recommends routine PSA testing:

• 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 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 years

It is important for men to know what their body feels like – if they are younger than the screening age indicated and note a change in their prostate or testicles, this 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 onset of puberty – 15 to 49 years, need to examine their testicles each month, preferably after a bath or shower. A lump, swelling, discomfort or an unexplained change in a testicle’s size or texture should be assessed promptly by a healthcare professional.