Local Stellenbosch doctor Gerhard Schoonbie unpacks prostate cancer in celebration of Men’s Health Month in June which is aimed at bringing awareness towards screenings for early detection and proper treatment for men’s cancers and other diseases.
According to Dr Schoonbee (61), a general practitioner for almost 41 years, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in South Africa with between 1 in 8 men developing prostate cancer in their lifetime.
Dr Gerard Schoonbee (61) sitting at his desk in his office PHOTO: Lucian van Wyk
He adds that the risk factors for developing prostate cancer are: age such as those above 60 years; familial history such as a father or a brother who had prostate cancer; and ethnicity with black men being at higher risk.
According to Dr Schoonbee there are two methods of prostate screenings, the blood test for PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) and the direct examination with the doctor placing his finger in the patient’s rectum to feel for any abnormalities of the prostate.
The Needle and syringe used in conducting the blood test for PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) PHOTO: Lucian van Wyk
He adds that the recommended age for screenings is from 50 years, but that those who are at high risk should start going for screenings from the age of 40.
Dr Schoonbee says: “If your PSA is below 10 it’s a low risk, if it’s between 10-20 it becomes a high risk and above 20 means one should definitely have further examinations.”
According to Dr Schoonbee prostate cancer can’t be placed in the same category as other cancers.
“Usually you die with it than from it. There’s a lot of treatment available,” says Dr Schoonbee.
He adds that “you should test yourself every 3 years and if your PSA is abnormal, every 6 months.”
Pieter West (58), Minister at the United Reformed Church in Calvinia in the Northern Cape who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in January 2018, says he would advise men above the age of 40 to never neglect their regular prostate scans.
“The biggest lesson I’ve learned from the whole experience is that early detection of prostate cancer is very beneficial in the successful treatment of the disease,” says West.
West had his prostate removed at Tygerberg Hospital on 18 June 2018 and has since been cancer free.
Various men raised their voices on the importance of prostate cancer screenings during Men’s Health Month.
Tommie Solomons (61), the Deputy Manager of administration at Cape Winelands District Municipality in Stellenbosch, says he goes for prostate screenings at least once a year.
“I prefer going for the blood test due to the uncomfortable nature of the rectal exam, but doctors have told me that doing both screening methods are preferred,” says Solomons.
Quinton Balie (39), Town Planner at Cape Winelands District Municipality in Stellenbosch, says: “I haven’t really thought of prostate screenings, but now that I am turning 40 this year I will have to go for a screening before the year is over.”
Cecil Fielies (39), Principle Clerk of tourism at Cape Winelands District Municipality in Stellenbosch, says that Men’s Health Month is an important initiative as in the past men never focused on their health and living a healthy lifestyle.
“By making men aware of the importance of their health and getting screened for prostate cancer will help them live longer and be healthier overall,” says Fielies.