Get tested for prostate cancer this weekend – for free

Pretoria men can have themselves tested for prostate cancer this weekend at the Urology Hospital in Hatfield – for free.

This September is prostate cancer awareness month and the hospital will participate in the “I took the test” campaign, in partnership with Astellas and the Prostate Cancer Foundation, by providing free tests.

“It is greatly recommended that men of African origin screen from the age of 40 and that other ethnic groups from 45,” said Urology Hospital CEO Malcolm Anthony.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in SA and is showing a significant increase.

The lifetime risk for prostate cancer in men in South Africa is approximately 1 in 4 for black African men and 1 in 8 for white males.

International and local research shows that the risk for aggressive prostate cancer is higher in black men.

Race is a major risk factor for prostate cancer, with black African men having a 60% increased risk for prostate cancer. They are also about 2.5 times more likely to die from the disease than other races.

“Early detection is key and those with a family history of prostate cancer should be screened often,” said Anthony.

“There are usually no symptoms of prostate cancer in the early stages,” said Prostate Cancer Foundation CEO Andrew Oberholzer.

“Screening regularly may have the benefit of early cancer detection when it is still potentially curable. Once it has metastasized there is no cure.”

The test detects prostate abnormalities. A high score can be due to prostate cancer, an enlarged prostate or an infection. The test is best done together with a digital rectal examination.

Requirements for the free test at the Urology Hospital, Pretoria on allocated dates:

– Black men from the age of 40 who have a family history of prostate and/or breast cancer in a first-degree relative.

– Men from the age of 45 years for all other races.

– This test is not for patients, i.e., those who have previously been diagnosed and/or treated for prostate cancer.

Friday, September 16 (10:00 – 16:00)

Saturday, September 17 (09:00 – 14:00)

Venue: Urology Hospital, Pretoria

Address: 1162 corner of Grosvenor and Pretorius streets, Hatfield, Pretoria.

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