“If you’re still concerned, please go back again and let us know as people have reached out to us at the Ministry of Health headquarters to say that they have been observed by doctors at a health centre to say they don’t feel well and were able to undergo a review and I think that’s important,” he said.
Men aged 50 years and above are required to be tested.
About 30 to 40 Fijian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year.
This was highlighted by the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Doctor Ifereimi Waqainabete while he talked about prostate cancer at the Antimicrobial Awareness Week launch at the Fiji National University (FNU) Pasifika campus in Suva last week.
Dr Waqainabete said Movember was an opportunity for us to have a reflection around cancer, specifically for prostate cancer.
“It does not stop us from thinking about the other types of cancer that is prevalent in Fiji but it’s really encouraging us to be able to reflect, to make sure that we live healthy lifestyles,” he said.
He said the ministry was prepared to reach out to people who were not satisfied with their check-ups at local health centres.
“If you’re still concerned, please go back again and let us know as people have reached out to us at the Ministry of Health headquarters to say that they have been observed by doctors at a health centre to say they don’t feel well and were able to undergo a review and I think that’s important,” he said.
About Prostate Cancer
Some common symptoms or signs that there could be issues with prostate include — difficulty starting urination, weak or interrupted flow of urine and frequent urination, especially at night.
Other symptoms that men need to look out for include difficulty emptying the bladder completely, pain or burning during urination and blood in the urine or semen.
Men should also get themselves checked if they experience pain in the back, hips or pelvis that does not go away and if they have painful ejaculation during intercourse.
The Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete. Photo: Ronald Kumar
How To Reduce The Risk Of Cancer?
The Ministry of Health says leading a healthy lifestyle is a very good way to reduce the risk of cancer.
Some of the ways men can do this are by not smoking, eating a healthy diet, being active and maintaining a healthy weight, reducing alcohol intake, practising safe sex and avoiding risky behaviour and getting regular tests.
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