Prostate cancer remains one of the leading causes of male mortality worldwide, and Mozambique is no exception. Despite scientific advances and the growing availability of information, many diagnoses are still made too late.
During a webinar recently organized by the Health Institute, urologist Ladino Manuel emphasized that prevention continues to be the most powerful tool in the fight against this disease, which progresses quietly and often without obvious symptoms. According to the specialist, combating prostate cancer depends on normalizing dialogue, eliminating stigmas, and making a continuous effort to encourage men to seek early diagnosis.“Courage is not in enduring the pain. It is in confronting it before it appears.â€
According to the specialist, the main challenge lies in the natural reluctance many men have to seek routine medical care. This resistance—whether cultural, emotional, or due to lack of awareness—is one of the factors contributing to the increase in late diagnoses. The specialist emphasizes that most cases could be identified earlier if men adopted a preventive approach.Â
“Prostate cancer does not have to be a death sentence. When detected early, the chances of successful treatment are extremely high.â€
The prostate, small and discreet in the body, performs essential functions for male fertility. However, as men age—particularly after 50—it becomes more vulnerable to changes that can develop into malignant tumors. Although not all tumors are aggressive, the absence of symptoms in the early stages makes regular screening an essential commitment. Dr. Ladino warns that the disease can be present for years until signs such as difficulty urinating, pelvic pain, or blood in the urine indicate an already advanced stage.
Prevention, the specialist explains, is anchored in two dimensions: screening and lifestyle. Screening includes simple and accessible tests, such as the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test and the digital rectal exam, which allow changes in the gland to be detected long before they become serious.Â
“The digital rectal exam remains a taboo, but it is essential. It can save lives because it provides a more accurate clinical assessment of the prostate.†According to the specialist, men with a family history of the disease should begin screening earlier, around the ages of 40 to 45.
In addition to medical tests, prevention also involves daily lifestyle choices. A diet rich in vegetables, fresh fruits, and fiber, combined with reduced intake of saturated fats, alcohol, and processed meats, helps lower the risk. Regular physical activity, weight control, and stress reduction complete the set of measures that protect the body.
“Modern lifestyles have been a key factor in the rise of chronic diseases. Small changes can have a huge impact on men’s health,†Ladino emphasized during the webinar.
When addressing ways to combat prostate cancer, the doctor highlighted that treatment varies depending on the stage of the disease and the patient’s physical condition. Surgery, radiotherapy, hormone therapies, and active surveillance are some of the available options.
However, the most effective approach remains prevention, which helps avoid invasive interventions and preserves quality of life. Ladino added that many myths surrounding the disease—such as the belief that late diagnosis is inevitable—need to be challenged through better health education, targeted campaigns, and open discussions about masculinity and self-care.
The webinar recently hosted by the Health Institute thus reinforced the urgency of transforming the discussion about prostate cancer into both a social and individual commitment.
(By Rafael Langa)
