Erasing Stigmas Surrounding Men's Health 

"Life begins at 40" is an expression we often hear. It signifies a benchmark for an individual's achievements, stability in both economic and social aspects of life. However, health statistics for men reveal a different story. The 40s mark the onset of a decline in their physical abilities and an increased risk of various diseases. This includes a lack of awareness about health issues.

The 40s are a critical point where physical capabilities decline, and the risk of exposure to various diseases increases. This is true also for health awareness. These factors contribute significantly to men being exposed to various life-threatening diseases, including prostate cancer. 

Prostate cancer has now become one of the major health threats to men and is one of the most commonly occurring cancers. Prostate cancer is a growth that originates from within the prostate gland. Dr. Lee Boon Cheok, Consultant Urologist at Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), highlights that the impact of prostate cancer can extend far beyond physical challenges.

"Some view this disease as weakening masculinity, while others hesitate to discuss their concerns, whether at home or in the community. This may be due to cultural norms that tend to keep such matters private," he stated in an interview with Majoriti 7. Therefore, he suggests that the stigma surrounding prostate cancer needs to be eliminated.

Both the community and patients themselves play a crucial role in dispelling the shame associated with the condition.

"The emotions and thoughts of men with prostate cancer encompass many factors, including themselves and those around them. Cancer is not the end of life. Today, there are many methods available if patients undergo early treatment," he emphasised.

Research on early health screening awareness indicates that screening for cancer, especially prostate cancer, receives insufficient attention from the public.

"There are several reasons for this. One of them is a lack of awareness about cancer, a lack of focus on personal health, and uneven access nationwide. Interestingly, the Chinese and Indian communities are more inclined to undergo cancer screening compared to Malay men.

"A cancer diagnosis is indeed frightening, but that's the importance of screening. If cancer is detected at stages one or two, the likelihood of a complete cure is high with appropriate treatment," stated Dr. Matin Mellor Abdullah, Consultant Oncologist at Subang Jaya Medical Centre.

In an effort to encourage men to be more open about health issues, Movember is celebrated every November, aiming to cultivate thick awareness in society.

Source
Majoriti 7