Prostate cancer the most common cancer in Jamaica

PROSTATE CANCER is a disease that starts in the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system. The prostate gland is found at the base of the bladder and is about the size of a walnut. Cancer occurs when the cells in the prostate begin to grow uncontrollably.

Executive Director of the Jamaica Cancer Society, Roshane Reid-Koomson said in the early stages, prostate cancer often has no symptoms at all. That is why screening, she said, is so important.

“When symptoms do show up, they can include difficulty urinating, a weak urine flow, blood in the urine or semen, or even pain in the hips and lower back. If symptoms are being experienced, it means that the cancer is advanced,” Reid-Koomson said.

Prostate cancer she said is not only the most common cancer among Jamaican men; it is the most common cancer overall in Jamaica.

“According to the Global Cancer Observatory, in 2022, Jamaica reported 1,599 new prostate cancer cases, accounting for 43.1 per cent of all male cancer diagnoses. Prostate cancer can be managed effectively if detected early, making regular screening very important,” Reid-Koomson said.

“The Jamaica Cancer Society provides screening services through clinic appointments and free screening initiatives by volunteer urologists. Screening is also available at health centres and through private practitioners across the island,” she added.

The Jamaica Urological Society she said, is also a helpful resource for finding qualified urologists, who are specialist doctors that diagnose and treat conditions of the prostate and urinary tract.

All men are at risk for prostate cancer and the risk increases as the man grows older. However, certain other factors increase the likelihood.

“For example, men of African descent, including most Jamaicans, are more likely to develop aggressive prostate cancer and have higher mortality rates, with up to 60 per cent higher incidence than Caucasians and more than twice the death rate. Family history also raises risk. Having a father or brother with prostate cancer roughly doubles a man’s risk. Men with a strong family history are often diagnosed at a younger age,” Reid-Koomson said.

Prostate cancer is diagnosed through a combination of tests. The Ministry of Health and Wellness recommends the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test and the Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) as the gold standard for screening.

“Both tests are important, and if either indicates a potential concern, the doctor may recommend further investigations such as a prostate biopsy to confirm the diagnosis,” Reid-Koomson said.

PSA Blood Test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Higher-than-normal levels may indicate a potential problem, while with the DRE, the doctor examines the prostate by feeling it through the rectum to check for lumps, hard areas, or changes in size and shape.

Men 40 years and older should be screened annually. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, you may need to start earlier, so talk with your doctor.

“While you cannot change your age or family history, you can reduce your risk through healthier lifestyle choices. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol. Most importantly, regular screening is key, as it allows prostate cancer to be detected early when treatment is most effective,” Reid-Koomson said.

ROLE OF JCS

The Jamaica Cancer Society plays a lead role in public education, advocacy, and screening, which include prostate, breast, and cervical cancers. They provide affordable and, in some cases, free screening services, particularly for the underserved across the island, through partnerships with organisations such as the National Health Fund and Guardian General Insurance Jamaica Limited.

“Our awareness efforts focus on three main areas. First, we increase public knowledge through mass media, social media, and health talks. Second, we host medical symposia to keep the healthcare community updated on screening, treatment, and best practice guidelines,” Reid-Koomson said.

“Third, we engage the public through forums that break the stigma around cancer and encourage early detection and proactive health checks. Through these initiatives, the society empowers Jamaicans to take control of their health and improve cancer outcomes across the nation,” she added.

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and the Jamaica Cancer Society has several planned activities. One of their signature events for the month include free screening clinics across several parishes, including Manchester, St Thomas, St James and Kingston.

The society will also host its annual Prostate Cancer Medical Symposium via Zoom on Sunday, September 21. This year, the JCS will also host a Prostate Cancer Public Forum on Sunday, September 28, starting at 3 p.m. at Jamaica College.

“We are making a special appeal to wives, girlfriends, mothers, aunts, and children to encourage the men in their lives to ‘Man Up and Check Up’ by getting screened for prostate cancer,” Reid-Koomson said.

The Jamaica Cancer Society also welcomes volunteers and new members who wish to support our work. You can contribute your time, skills, or donations to help advance their advocacy, education, screening, and support services.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com