Siziba Thando
Health and environment reporter
As prostate cancer continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in Zimbabwe, awareness and early detection have become critical.
Experts warn that while the risk of prostate-related conditions increases with age, lack of knowledge remains one of the biggest obstacles to early diagnosis and treatment.
During an interview with Zim GBC News Doctor Maphias Siamuchembu, a medical practitioner and specialist surgeon stated that:
“According to a 2023 study in Harare, 74.5% of men surveyed did not know what prostate cancer was—yet all participants were aware it could be fatal. Unfortunately, most cases are only discovered at advanced stages, where treatment is more difficult and survival rates are significantly lower, falling below 40% over five years.”
The Big Three: BPH, Prostatitis, and Prostate Cancer
Many men experience urinary symptoms but are unaware of their cause. There are three major prostate conditions:
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate due to aging or hormonal changes. Symptoms include weak urine flow, urgency, and frequent urination, especially at night.
- Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate, often caused by bacterial infection. Symptoms include painful urination, pelvic pain, and fever. It is not cancerous but may increase future risk.
- Prostate Cancer: An uncontrolled growth of cells in the prostate. While early stages are silent, advanced cancer may bring blood in urine/semen, bone pain, or urinary difficulties. Men of African descent and those with a family history are at higher risk.
“Prostate cancer can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, most commonly bones.” Explained the doctor.
Screenings Save Lives
Zimbabwean doctors encourage men over 40 to undergo regular screenings through:
- PSA Test (Prostate-Specific Antigen): A simple blood test that helps detect abnormal activity in the prostate.
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical examination to detect lumps or hardness in the prostate. If something suspicious is found, a biopsy is recommended.
Early detection through PSA and DRE tests offers the best chance of successful treatment.
“A Harare study found 87.7% of men had never been screened. Another big challenge is that less than half of those who are screened return for their results.” Said Dr Siamuchembu
Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs
Men often dismiss early symptoms as signs of aging. But healthcare providers urge men to seek medical advice if they notice:
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Weak urine stream or difficulty starting
- Blood in urine or semen
- Unexplained pain in the hips, pelvis, or lower back
Prevention Starts With Lifestyle
Doctor also recommend key lifestyle changes:
- Maintain a healthy weight – Obesity is linked to more aggressive prostate cancer.
- Adopt a prostate-healthy diet – Eat more fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in antioxidants, such as tomatoes which contain lycopene, known for its protective properties.
Raising awareness about prostate health is not just a medical necessity, but a public health priority. Men over 40 should take charge of their health through education, regular checkups, and lifestyle changes. Prostate cancer is beatable—if caught early.
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