The increasing number of prostate-related diseases in Murang’a County has led to increased challenges for men to undergo regular prostate screenings.
According to medics, prostate-related cases in the county are on the increase in the recent past, with a local medical survey indicating one in every three men aged above 50 years has been diagnosed with a prostate disease.
The study indicates that many men shy away from going for frequent checkups, thus diagnosing the disease in a severe state.
During a mentorship programme on reproductive health held in the Wahundura area in Mathioya Sub County, it was revealed that a big number of those diagnosed with the disease usually seek medical attention when the same is at an advanced stage.
Over 300 men attended a local church forum, where Bishop Samuel Kahugo emphasised the church’s role in raising awareness about prostate-related diseases and encouraging early medical assistance.
Kahugo noted the reproductive health mentorship initiative, which aims to address the challenges that men face and restore their potential by forming support groups.
“Men in our communities have not been doing well; they have been overtaken by women in many matters. As a church, we are focusing on how they can assemble and form small groups.
Dr. Jeremiah Karanja, a health expert, emphasised the significance of early prostate-related screening, primarily affecting men over their fifties.
He emphasised the importance of early medical evaluations for men, stating that they could potentially save lives.
Men over 50 years should undergo screening for a common disease, as some individuals may develop it earlier.
“Early detection of prostate cancer can be well managed and successfully treated. But unfortunately, those affected by the disease go to the hospital when it’s too late,” he said.
Jathi Mwangi, a facilitator of the programme, underscored the need for targeted awareness in rural areas to ensure that men understand their health risks and the benefits of government-sponsored insurance schemes.
“Representatives from the Social Health Authority should invest more in programmes that sensitise people in rural areas on how they can get medical insurance,” he said.
By Bernard Munyao