Men, this month is for your health!

Sporting a newly grown moustache in November, also known as “Movember” is more than just a new look. It is part of a growing awareness of health issues affecting men.

November is Men's Health Awareness month, which focuses on cancer in men, in particular testicular and prostate cancer.

Knysna resident Marius Davids, 52, had his own journey with prostate cancer.

‘I remember going to the doctor in September of 2019. Back then I wasn’t really one to go to the doctor when I was feeling sick. But I decided to go this time because I really wasn’t feeling well. I was sent for a blood test and a few weeks later I was told that I have prostate cancer. Fortunately, it was detected early. It was stage 1 prostate cancer, which made it easier to be treated.’

Men must do their yearly check-ups. Making your health a priority is a sign of strength, not weakness. I’m glad I went for my yearly check-up because who knows where I would be today. I’m here cancer-free four years later and I’ve been going for my yearly check-ups ever since’, he said.

Western Cape Government Health offers a range of health services for men, including mental health support, screening of blood pressure, blood sugar, STI and HIV testing and treatment, and medical male circumcision.

Early detection of health issues is important. Therefor men need to visit a health facility to confirm they are in good health or discuss any problems they might have. This includes preventative care and guidance on preventative measures such as vaccinations, screening and lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of various health conditions.

For men with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension or heart disease, regular check-ups help monitor and manage these conditions to prevent complications.

What sort of health tests should a man have?

• a man should have his weight checked to ensure he is at a healthy weight.
• have a yearly prostate exam over the age of 40 years.
• check blood pressure.
• have an annual diabetes(sugar/glucose) test.
• have regular cholesterol tests.
• yearly HIV test.
• regular check-up of eye, teeth, ears and feet.

For more information visit your local clinic or healthcare provider or contact:

Cancer Association of SA Toll Free 0800 22 66 22
SA Federation of Mental Health 011 781 1852
AIDS Help Line 0800 012 322
Cape Mental Health 021 447 9040
SANCA 021 945 4080
 

Additional information

Prostate cancer:

The symptoms of prostate cancer include:

- A need to urinate frequently, especially at night

- Difficulty starting urination or holding back urine

- Weak or interrupted flow of urine

- Painful or burning urination

- Difficulty in having an erection

- Painful ejaculation

- Blood in urine or semen

- Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs

Testicular cancer:

Is the most common cancer in men aged 15 to 35.

Testicular cancer starts as an abnormal growth or tumour that develops in one or both testicles.

There are several types of testicular cancer, but the most common is the germ cell tumour.

The symptoms of testicular cancer include:

- A lump or swelling in the testicle.

- An increase in the firmness of a testicle.

- A difference between one testicle and the other.

- A dull ache or sharp pain in the testicles or scrotum, which may come and go.

- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.