Over 600 men undergo screening for prostate cancer in Nyeri

One of the men who attended a free medical camp for men's health at Outspan Hospital in Nyeri gives a blood sample to one of the staff at the hospital. [PHOTO: LYDIAH NYAWIRA/STANDARD]

NYERI, KENYA: Over 600 men from Mount Kenya region underwent screening for prostate cancer after they attended a men's health open day at Outspan Hospital during the weekend.

The open day offered men free medical exams that included blood tests, blood pressure, urine tests and free consultations with doctors from the facility.

Outspan Hospital director Dr Macharia Kiruhi said that the hospital offered the services targeting men because men and boys social welfare had been neglected in the region and health concerns surrounding men were often not discussed.

“Men do not openly seek medical attention in this region because of their pride and also because they fear they will be considered weak by their families," Dr Kiruhi explained.

He said male patients seek medical attention when the prostate cancer is in its' third and fourth stage and cannot be treated.

"We are overwhelmed by the number of men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer when it is too late to help them," Kiruhi said.

Kiruhi said that open day was part of the institutions social responsibility activities that give back to the community.

"This is the first time we are holding this forum and the number of men coming today has surpassed our targets therefore we intend to hold an open day for men annually," Dr Kiruhi said.

Dr Kiruhi said that the hospital will hold a women's open day in October to allow women to be screened for diseases such as breast and cervical cancer.

"There has been a great deal of publicity for cancers affecting women and yet prostate cancer is also very deadly for men and we want to start highlighting this disease and help as many men as possible prevent it,"Dr. Kiruhi said.

The hospital staff conducted laboratory tests focusing on prostate diseases, and lifestyle diseases.

"Those patients who need further treatment will be referred to other health institutions," Dr Kiruhi said.

Paul Mwangi, 65, was a beneficiary of free medical services said he travelled from Kiharu in Muranga County seeking treatment.

"I have been tested for high blood pressure and prostate cancer, but am lucky because the doctor has said I do not have it, but I will come back next year for a check up," Mwangi said.

Steven Maina, 60, a resident of Nanyuki in Laikipia County said he heard about the check up and decided to come since it was free.

"You most men fear knowing their HIV status, or getting diagnosed with cancer, but for me today, I now know my HIV status and I would urge all men to visit a doctor for check once in a while," Maina said.

Dr Kiruhi urged men to get regular medical check up to prevent certain diseases and seek treatments before it is too late.

"Men are known to take their cars for regular tune up, they need to ensure they also care for their bodies by getting a check up for the sake of their health," Dr Kiruhi concluded.