Prostate cancer has become one of the leading cancers affecting men in Uganda. Once considered a disease of older men in Western countries, doctors at the Uganda Cancer Institute say cases are now rising locally as men live longer and awareness improves. In this week’s LET’S TALK HEALTH, we’ll delve into prostate cancer, which now ranks among the top cancers in Ugandan men, alongside liver and oesophageal cancers.
What Is Prostate Cancer?
According to WebMD, prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate gland grow abnormally and form tumours. The prostate is a small gland below the bladder that produces semen. While many prostate tumours grow slowly, some can be aggressive and life-threatening if not detected early.
Why Does It Happen?
The exact cause remains unclear. However, experts believe it develops through a combination of age-related changes, genetic risks, and male hormones (androgens) that fuel cancer growth. Inherited mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and Lynch syndrome can increase the risk of developing aggressive disease.
Who Is at Risk?
Older gentlemen: Most cases in Uganda are diagnosed after age 65.
Family history: Men whose fathers, brothers, or sons had prostate cancer face higher risk.
African ancestry: Men of African descent, including Ugandans, often develop more aggressive forms.
Lifestyle risks:
Obesity and smoking can worsen outcomes.
Dietary habits may influence risk, though evidence is mixed. Some supplements, like Vitamin E, have been shown to increase rather than reduce risk.
Warning Signs to Watch For
The Uganda Cancer Institute states that in the early stages, prostate cancer may show no symptoms, but as it progresses, men may notice:
Frequent urination, especially at night
Weak or interrupted urine flow
Blood in urine or semen
Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis
Unexplained weight loss
Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions such as prostate enlargement, men are urged to seek medical evaluation promptly.
Screening in Uganda
The main test is the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, often combined with a digital rectal exam (DRE).
Men aged 55-69 are encouraged to discuss PSA screening with a doctor.
Those at higher risk, including men with a family history of cancer, should begin by age 45.
Mulago National Referral Hospital and the Uganda Cancer Institute offer PSA testing, MRI scans, and biopsies to confirm diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Early-stage disease (confined to the prostate):
The Uganda Cancer Institute provides active surveillance for very low-risk cases.
Surgery (radical prostatectomy) available at Mulago and some private hospitals.
Radiotherapy is provided at the Uganda Cancer Institute.
Locally advanced or high-risk disease:
Radiation therapy + hormone therapy (ADT).
Surgery sometimes followed by additional treatments.
Advanced or metastatic disease:
Hormone therapy (injections to suppress testosterone).
Chemotherapy
Newer drugs such as abiraterone and enzalutamide can be found in private hospitals but are costly.
Targeted therapies remain limited but are used globally.
Can This Cancer Be Prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer. However, doctors recommend:
Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and avoiding smoking.
Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole foods while limiting red and processed meats.
Regular PSA checks from the late 40s, especially if there is a family history.
Natural and Herbal Remedies: What You Should Know
Many Ugandan men turn to herbal remedies and local foods such as tomatoes (lycopene), green tea, and pomegranate juice. These may also promote overall health.
However, doctors advise men to use them only as complements, not substitutes for hospital treatment, as none have been scientifically proven to cure prostate cancer.
Some traditional herbs may interact with prescribed medicines, so consultation with a health worker is crucial.
Key Takeaways for Ugandan Men
Know your risk: Men over 45 should consider PSA screening.
Don’t ignore symptoms: seek care if you notice urinary problems or bone pain.
Early treatment saves lives: Uganda has options at national and regional hospitals.
Natural remedies can support health, but only hospital treatments fight cancer effectively.
Prostate cancer is rising in Uganda, but early detection and timely treatment can save lives. Awareness, regular check-ups, and healthier lifestyles are the strongest tools men can use to fight the disease.
This article has tried to delve into the causes, symptoms and possible treatments for prostate cancer; however, men are advised to seek professional medical advice for personalised treatment.
