Dear Editor,

For many males throughout the world, the words “prostate cancer” drive an abundance of fear and trembling into their hearts and minds. However, the sad reality is as a man grows older his chances of developing prostate problems increases.

According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, more than 1.1 million cases of prostate cancer were recorded in 2012. The same source added that prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide. Black men for some reason tend to have a very high rate of prostate cancer, along with a higher death rate. The medical fraternity tells us that Jamaica has a very high rate and aggressive form of prostate cancer among the male population.

Like many other illnesses, early detection is critical to survival. Further, the cost of treatment for prostate cancer can be quite daunting. This fact was recently highlighted by a male reader to one of our local newspapers. He stated that after he was diagnosed with prostate cancer the cost for radiotherapy was $2 million.

We all know the cost of health care is not cheap, however, when we begin to quote such numbers for treatment we are not giving the patient much choice. When one is diagnosed with a terminal illness that individual is most vulnerable. To add more stress to the patient with such costs is very disturbing.

The time has come for us to coordinate all stakeholders to work on developing a more affordable policy to treat prostate cancer. It cannot be that we allow people to wither away and die because of their inability to afford and access health care.

Wayne Campbell

waykam@yahoo.com

www.wayaine.blogspot.com