Ghana exceeds global prostate cancer records

Accra, Aug 7, GNA - Ghana has exceeded global prostate limits as the country records 200 cases out of every 100,000 men as against 170 world-wide, a survey by the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital revealed. Dr Mathew Kyei, Urologist said at a Ghana Health Service monthly programme in Accra on Tuesday that the situation called for immediate attention from government and the public to reverse the trend. Speaking on: "Prostate Cancer Disorders in Ghana", he said in 2006, 60 per cent of all cancers reported at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital were prostate cancers, adding that 27 people died from the disease in 2005 alone.

He explained that prostate, an organ located between bladder and urethra of men, which is responsible for providing energy to sperms, could develop cancer as the organ over develops.

Dr Kyei said the disease, which in Ghana is common in men above 50 years, could be caused by fatty foods, smoking, alcoholism, and other generic and cellular factors.

He stated that prostate cancer, which causes ill health and other discomfort, could result in urine retention, interruptions and weak urinary systems, poor ejaculation, blood in semen and stools. The Urologist noted that in the advanced stage some patients could experience back and bone pains, pathological fractures, and paralysis. He said consuming more vegetables, especially heated tomatoes, fruits containing vitamins C and E and frequent exercise could reduce risk factors.

Dr Kyei mentioned the inadequate number of urologists, absence of skilled professionals to perform prostate surgery and the absence of sophisticated surgical equipment, as some challenges hampering management of the disease.

He appealed to government to include the disease in the list of those covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme to make its management more efficient. Dr Kyei also advised the general public to seek early medical attention if they detect any of the symptoms and volunteer for a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) screening. Dr Bill Bosu, Programme Manager for Non-communicable Diseases, said public awareness on cancers in Ghana was low and urged the public to be more conscious on their health. He said his department was outlining a national strategy to provide a framework for effective management of non-communicable diseases, adding that prostate cancer would remain high on the agenda. 07 Aug. 07