Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony is urging greater participation in prostate cancer screenings among men, emphasizing the importance of early detection in improving treatment outcomes.
In a statement to reporters, Dr. Anthony highlighted that the Government provides free prostate cancer screenings, yet many men tend to seek medical assistance only when symptoms are severe. This delay in seeking care significantly limits their treatment options.
“A common thing that we see, for example, is in prostate cancer, which is the more prevalent cancer that affects men. We see men coming in at late stages, which indicates they have been experiencing symptoms for years prior but do not seek help until it becomes critical. At that point, resolving their health issues becomes problematic,” noted Minister Anthony.
Prostate cancer has emerged as a leading health threat to men in Guyana, accounting for 19% of all cancer-related deaths recorded nationwide over the past three years, according to the Ministry of Health’s National Guidelines for the Management of Prostate Health. This statistic reflects the grim reality that prostate cancer is not only the most common cancer among Guyanese men but also the deadliest.
The Minister mentioned the introduction of health vouchers designed to encourage more men to undergo PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) tests, which are essential for early detection. “We have been issuing vouchers for labs—one type for adults and one for children. There has been a relatively good uptake among adult men using these vouchers for their PSA tests. If the PSA levels are elevated, it could indicate changes in the prostate, allowing us to perform biopsies and further assessments,” he explained.
The Ministry of Health has identified specific groups at a higher risk, including men aged 45 and older, especially those of Afro-Guyanese descent and those with a family history of prostate cancer.
Multiple factors contribute to the low rates of screening, including poor health-seeking behaviors, cultural myths surrounding prostate examinations, and gaps in access to screening and treatment. These issues continue to hinder early detection efforts.
The Ministry emphasized that prostate cancer is “likely curable” if detected early, although prognosis depends on various factors including genetics, disease aggressiveness, and broader social determinants of health.
Dr. Anthony’s call to action aims to raise awareness about the importance of regular screenings, encouraging men to prioritize their health and seek preventive care.
