JCS calls for stronger action to address prostate cancer
KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — The Jamaica Cancer Society (JCS) is calling on government for the enforcement of legislation that addresses the main modifiable risk factors for prostate cancer.
Executive Director of the JCS, Yulit Gordon, explained that the risk factors include physical inactivity, harmful use of alcohol, exposure to second hand smoke, and an unhealthy diet.
“All these main modifiable risk factors are linked to mortality and morbidity,” said Gordon, as preparations get underway to observe Prostate Cancer Awareness Month during September.
She pointed out that as a member of the Jamaica Coalition for Tobacco Control (JCTC) the JCS was a part of the voice that championed the cause for the ban on smoking in public places.
Gordon said the partners within the Ministry of Health and the JCTC are now in the process of sensitizing the various industries, community groups and members of civil society about the impact and the benefits of the legislation.
She noted that the JCS is already partnering with the National Health Fund (NHF) to do community outreach across the island.
“Deeper collaboration is taking place and from these conversations, we would like to see new legislation, like mandatory screening, in place,” said the JCS executive director.
She indicated that the JCS would also like to see a return to mandatory Physical Education classes in all schools.
The JCS is also encouraging all men between 40 and 75 years old to make use of all the opportunities that will become available to them throughout Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, such as screening; one-on-one sessions with a urologist to discuss concerns; and access to counselling and support, which is provided by the JCS through its network of counsellors.
In addition, the JCS will provide prostate cancer screening on Wednesday, September 17, at the Mandeville Parish Church; screening and health talks at the JCS on Lady Musgrave Road, in Kingston, on September 18; a public forum and screening at the Jamaica Conference Centre, on September 21; and screening on September 29, at the Montego Bay Cultural Centre, in Sam Sharpe Square.
