Mass wellness campaign encourages men to get tested
To raise awareness about men's health and related legal and social issues, several health service providers collaborated to offer free health screenings to law enforcement authorities and others.
Too many men ignore warning signs until it’s too late – whether it’s a silent heart attack, untreated depression, or undetected prostate cancer.
To break this dangerous cycle, local health organisations hosted a men’s health dialogue on July 4 for law enforcement and municipal staff in Rand West.
The event, attended by about 60 police officers, municipal employees and traffic officials, aimed to raise awareness about men’s physical, mental and legal well-being.
According to Tsholofelo Radebe, spokesperson for Lenmed Private Hospital, the event tackled topics that men often avoid, offering a safe, educational space to engage in important conversations.
A urologist addressed male reproductive health and the importance of early screening for prostate conditions – an area many men tend to neglect due to fear or misinformation. A psychiatrist unpacked the realities of depression, trauma and the stigma surrounding mental health in men.
To highlight the impact of lifestyle on well-being, a dietitian spoke on managing weight, high blood pressure and diabetes through nutrition. A prosecutor also presented legal insights into marriage contracts, including those in community of property.
After the dialogue, attendees were invited outside for free health screenings, which included blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol testing.
Participating services included Pathcare, Lancet, SANBS, Mkhawana Clinic, Lenmed Private Hospital, and Proscan Radiology Services.
“Many men are unaware of their cholesterol and glucose levels,” said Lancet relations officer Bella van Wyk. “We wanted to bring these screenings to them in a familiar, low-pressure environment.”
SANBS donor recruiter Isaac Mojaki added, “Men tend not to donate blood as often. By explaining the process and criteria, we hope to make it more accessible and less intimidating.”
Student nurses Thandolwethu Mbatha and Ramogohlo Malatji from Lenmed conducted cholesterol and glucose tests and distributed multi-vitamins.
Proscan Radiology Services focused on raising awareness about prostate cancer.
“Men are usually scared to get tested because they believe the old, invasive method is still used,” explained general manager Xonani Molefi. “But we now have more comfortable, modern technology. We encouraged a pro-active lifestyle – and in some cases, we even picked up abnormalities.”
By tackling stigma and bringing healthcare directly to the men who often avoid it, organisers hope this initiative will spark long-term change in how men approach their health, before it’s too late.
