Prostate cancer remains a significant health challenge in Kenya, yet many men continue to avoid screening due to deeply rooted cultural beliefs, misinformation, and systemic healthcare barriers. Despite increasing awareness of the disease, misconceptions and stigmas around screening methods deter many from taking proactive health measures.
Dr. Catherine Nyogesa, an oncologist at Texas Cancer Centre Nairobi, highlights that many men perceive prostate cancer screening as a threat to their masculinity. The fear of vulnerability and misconceptions surrounding the Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) create an emotional barrier that prevents them from seeking early detection. Many men associate medical checkups with weakness, believing that a strong man should not appear worried about his health.
Beyond personal fears, cultural attitudes also play a significant role. In many Kenyan communities, discussing health issues especially those related to reproductive organs is considered taboo. This silence results in misinformation, with some believing that screening could cause more harm than good. Others see a cancer diagnosis as a death sentence, further reinforcing their reluctance to get tested.
Even those who overcome the stigma face practical challenges. The cost of screening is prohibitively high for many, especially in rural areas where access to affordable healthcare is limited. Additionally, transportation difficulties, long wait times at public health facilities, and the need to take time off work discourage men from seeking testing.
Kenya’s healthcare infrastructure is another major hurdle. Many public hospitals lack adequate screening facilities, while private hospitals charge fees beyond the reach of most Kenyans. According to Dr. Nyogesa, the country suffers from a shortage of oncologists and urologists, leading to long waiting periods for those who do choose to get screened.
“Many men avoid screening because they fear it means a death sentence. The stigma surrounding prostate cancer prevents them from getting tested, as they don’t want to face the judgement that comes with a diagnosis. Raising awareness, sharing success stories from survivors, and emphasising the importance of early detection can help change this mindset,” she explains.
Prostate cancer, if detected early, is highly treatable. Dr. Maryanne Omenda of Heart Africa stresses that men over 50 and those over 45 with a family history of the disease should prioritize screening. Symptoms such as difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, or unexplained lower back and pelvic pain should not be ignored.
However, many men assume that if they do not have symptoms, they do not need screening. This misconception leads to late diagnoses, when treatment options become more complex and expensive.
Dr. Omenda also notes that in many cases, men seek medical attention only when urged by their spouses. Unlike cervical cancer, which benefits from regular public health campaigns, prostate cancer remains overlooked in many awareness initiatives.
Advancements in medical technology are making early detection easier. New diagnostic tools such as Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests, MRI imaging, and telemedicine offer less invasive screening methods. However, these technologies are not yet widely available in rural Kenya due to cost and infrastructure limitations.
To increase screening rates, Dr. Nyogesa advocates for confidential, dignified screening processes. She also emphasizes the need for government intervention, including subsidized screening programs, insurance coverage for prostate cancer tests, and public health campaigns to change perceptions.
Dr. Omenda suggests that community leaders and baraza forums should be leveraged to educate men on the importance of screening. By engaging religious and traditional leaders, the conversation around prostate cancer can be normalized, reducing stigma and encouraging more men to seek testing.
Additionally, workplace wellness programs can play a vital role in promoting prostate cancer awareness. Employers should encourage routine check-ups and provide insurance plans that cover preventive healthcare, including prostate cancer screening.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among Kenyan men, with 3,582 new cases reported in 2022. Despite its prevalence, the disease continues to be shrouded in stigma, misinformation, and financial barriers. Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach, including education, improved healthcare access, and government support.
Early detection remains the best defense against prostate cancer. Encouraging open conversations, providing affordable screening options, and utilizing technological advancements can significantly reduce mortality rates. Kenyan men must be empowered with the knowledge and resources needed to take charge of their health—before it is too late.
