Group urges action against rising prostate cancer among black men

The Inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity Consortium for Black Men has called for a united front in tackling the rising cases of prostate cancer globally.

The call was made at a one-day Prostate Cancer Summit in Lokoja on Wednesday, themed “United Against Prostate Cancer.”

A Consultant Urologist and representative of ICCARE Lokoja, Dr Ayodeji Ogunmola, said the summit, organised in partnership with the Urology Unit of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, coincided with the global Men’s Health Awareness Month.

“The summit would provide a safe space for men to share their experiences, break down stigmas, ask questions, and learn from experts,” Ogunmola said.

He praised the courage of men living with prostate cancer, adding, “We are not just talking about awareness in the abstract; we are creating a community, right here in Lokoja. It takes strength to face uncertainty, and it takes even greater strength to seek connection while battling prostate cancer.”

Ogunmola emphasised the importance of regular check-ups, warning that the lack of proper screenings was contributing to the rising cases of prostate cancer among black men. Dr Ojochide Ebune, the Acting Chief Medical Director of FTHL, commended the organisers for addressing an issue that affects human dignity.

“Men should take advantage of the summit’s resources, including talks by expert doctors and healthcare personnel, to learn more about managing prostate cancer,” he said.

The Principal Investigator of the Prostate Cancer Transatlantic Consortium, Lokoja site, Dr Taiwo Jones, highlighted the vision of Professor Folakemi Odedina of Mayo Clinic, USA, founder of both the CaPTC and ICCARE Consortium for Black Men.

Jones noted that Odedina’s team has worked tirelessly to reduce disparities and inequalities associated with prostate cancer among black men.

A Consultant Public Health expert, Dr Abimbola Adesanya, stressed the importance of educating and motivating men to seek help and support, adding that the summit aimed to raise awareness and reduce stigmas surrounding the disease, which affects millions of men worldwide.

Participants also expressed appreciation for the initiative. Benjamin Alamogu said the summit would help men manage their health and reduce the stigma associated with prostate cancer. The event featured a team of urologists and specialists who provided accessible information on the disease and treatment options.

The summit further saw the launch of a Prostate Cancer Support Group, described as a “sustained brotherhood” where men can find strength, share practical tips, and draw encouragement from others facing similar challenges.

The Urology Unit of FTH Lokoja also unveiled a Patient Information Leaflet on Prostate Cancer, providing quick and reliable resources for patients and the public.

The event concluded with a call to action urging men to prioritise their health and seek medical attention promptly if they experience any symptoms.

Online reports that in September 2021, the founder,prostrate Cancer Transatlantic Consortium, Prof. Ademola Popoola, urged the Nigerian government to support men with prostate cancer in view of the high cost of care, which is out of reach of many patients.

Popoola, a professor of urological surgery, lamented that “prostate cancer is increasing among Nigerian men and it is a major cause of death among them”.