The Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) recently sounded the alarm over the alarming increase in prostate disorders among Nigerian men. According to the association, the number of cases has skyrocketed in recent years, with many men being diagnosed with prostate cancer, enlarged prostate, and other related conditions.
The AMLSN attributed the rise to a combination of factors, including poor diet, lack of exercise, and inadequate healthcare services.
The group also urged the government to pay adequate attention to the poor working conditions, inadequate remuneration, toxic work environments, and other problems fueling brain drain in the health sector.
To address the issue, the AMLSN launched a nationwide awareness campaign, urging men to get regular check-ups and adopt healthier lifestyles. The association also called on the government to increase funding for healthcare services and improve access to quality medical care.
In a communiqué issued by the Lagos State Branch at the end of its 59th yearly Scientific Conference, themed: ‘Holistic Approach to Prostate Disorders: Integrating Multidisciplinary Strategies for Precision Diagnosis’, the association noted that disorders such as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer are becoming more prevalent in the country.
The communiqué jointly signed by AMLSN State’s branch Chairman, Abioye Omoyemi, Secretary, Nebo Chinwe and Chairman of the communique drafting committee, Adeleke Olaoluwa, the association noted that black men are 70 per cent more likely to develop prostate cancer than white men and nearly 2.3 times more likely to die from the disease.
AMLSN advised men to undergo regular health screenings, especially as they age, to facilitate early detection and treatment of prostate disorders adding that the recommended screening methods include Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) tests and other diagnostic measures.
One of the men affected by prostate disorders is 55-year-old Mr. Samson Adeola. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year and has since undergone surgery and chemotherapy. “I never thought I’d be affected by this disease,” Mr. Okoro said. “But I’m grateful for the treatment I received, and I want to encourage other men to take their health seriously.”
The AMLSN’s warning has sparked a national conversation about men’s health, with many Nigerians calling for greater awareness and action. As the Chairman of the association emphasized, “Prostate disorders are treatable if caught early. Let’s work together to save lives.”
