‘Man up and get tested’
CONVERSATIONS about the prostate should not be taboo and open discussions should be encouraged.
This was highlighted by Mr Lingo Reece, one of four prostate cancer survivors who attended the annual Movember Prostate Cancer Awareness at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital on Friday.
At 64 years, Mr Reece stood proud as he recounted his journey with the ailment. Having been diagnosed three years earlier while working at
Castaway Island Resort in the Mamanuca Group, he stressed on the importance of early detection.
He pleaded that people, especially of the iTaukei population, did away with ancient perceptions on issues of health and openly conversed if they presented symptoms.
“Man up and get tested,” he said. “With the rise in cancer in the male population, it is very important that men see medical professionals if they show symptoms. The earlier they are tested, the earlier they are diagnosed and can get treated.”
He reiterated the need for more awareness as most men did not present themselves in hospitals because they did not know what the symptoms were until it was too late. Some were also too embarrassed to seek help, he added.
Participants at the event were told the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Fiji Cancer Society and Suva Golden Oldies Rugby Club, continued to create awareness and conduct screenings or PSA (prostate-specific antigen)blood tests and the public was urged to take advantage of the services provided.