Prostate cancer has been affecting elderly males around the globe. In Metro Cebu, it is the fourth most common cancer among males in Metro Cebu. The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center (EJACC) urges the public to fight against the disease through early detection and other preventive measures.
Cebuanos, especially males, are reminded that prostate cancer can be prevented as the whole country is celebrating Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
“Prostate cancer is preventable through screening tests, like digital rectal examination and blood test called prostate specific antigen (PSA), as well as physical examination, regular exercise, and maintenance of well-balanced diet,” Ronald delos Reyes, program coordinator of RAFI EJACC, said.
Based on the Metro Cebu Population-based Cancer Registry, the incidence and mortality rate of prostate cancer among men is high especially at 50 years old and above. Within 1998-2002, about 263 cases of prostate cancer were reported and 158 patients were recorded to have died of the disease. While in 2003-2007, among the 353 cases, 217 died.
Common treatments to prostate cancer include surgery, cryosurgery, hormone therapy, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.
Prostate Cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the prostate, a gland in the male reproductive system. Most prostate cancers are slow growing; however, there are cases of aggressive prostate cancers. The cancer cells may metastasize (spread) from the prostate to other parts of the body, particularly the bones and lymph nodes. Prostate cancer may cause pain, difficulty in urinating, problems during sexual intercourse, or erectile dysfunction. Other symptoms can potentially develop during later stages of the disease.
EJACC is a program under RAFI’s Integrated Development focus area, addressing health issues of communities in order to create a better quality of life. Other focus areas of RAFI are Micro-finance & Entrepreneurship, Culture & Heritage, Citizenship & Leadership, and Education.
For more information about EJACC, please contact 254-6351 or 256-3287 and look for Gina Mariquit, or visit www.rafi.org.ph or www.facebook.com/rafi.org.ph.
