A South Africa-based medical expert Dr. Ademola Ojo has urged Nigerian men to take prostate health and general wellness seriously, stressing the importance of early detection, regular medical checks, and healthy lifestyle choices in reducing the impact of prostate cancer and other health challenges.
Dr. Ojo, while speaking on the topic “Men’s Health: Prostate Cancer and General Wellness” on The African Portal Radio/TV with Dare Olusan, explained that prostate cancer remains an important health concern for men and advised them not to wait until they develop obvious symptoms before seeking medical attention.
According to him, prostate cancer may develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making awareness and appropriate medical evaluation essential.
He explained that men should understand the difference between prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate. While both conditions can affect urination, an enlarged prostate is not the same as cancer, and urinary symptoms alone cannot determine whether a man has prostate cancer.
Dr. Ojo stressed the importance of discussing prostate health with qualified healthcare professionals, particularly for men who may have increased risk factors, including advancing age and a family history of prostate cancer.
He noted that medical assessment may involve a patient’s medical and family history, physical examination, and tests such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, depending on the individual’s circumstances.
The medical expert, however, cautioned that PSA screening has limitations and that an elevated PSA level does not automatically mean a man has prostate cancer. He therefore advised men to consult healthcare professionals for proper interpretation of test results and further evaluation where necessary.
Dr Ojo also emphasised the importance of early detection, noting that prostate cancer identified at an early stage generally offers more opportunities for effective treatment.
He said treatment options depend on several factors, including the stage and characteristics of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. These may include active surveillance, surgery, radiotherapy, and other medical treatments where appropriate.
The South Africa-based expert further noted that men should be properly counselled about the possible effects of prostate cancer and its treatment, particularly regarding urinary and sexual health.
Beyond prostate cancer, Dr Ojo encouraged men to adopt a comprehensive approach to their health by paying attention to blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet.
Dr. Ojo concluded by urging men to break the culture of silence surrounding prostate and general men’s health, noting that early medical attention can make an important difference when health problems arise.
Packaged by Oladotun Ajibola
