Uganda records 2,537 new prostate cancer cases annually

ParrotsugNov 11, 2026Read original

Uganda registers an estimated 2,537 new prostate cancer cases annually, with health authorities warning that late diagnosis continues to expose men to advanced disease and increased risk of death.

Dr Alfred Jatho, the Head of Community Cancer Services at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI), said prostate cancer remains the leading cause of male cancer illness and death in the country.

He made the remarks on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, while addressing journalists at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala ahead of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, observed every November.

Jatho said up to 80% of Ugandan prostate cancer patients present at referral treatment centres with advanced disease, mainly at stages three and four.

He attributed the trend to low screening uptake, stigma and limited diagnostic capacity, particularly in rural health facilities.

He warned that although prostate cancer is highly treatable when detected early, delayed diagnosis reduces the chances of successful treatment.

“Do not wait for symptoms. Early-stage prostate cancer rarely presents warning signs. By the time you experience difficulty passing urine, blood in urine or lower back pain, the disease may already be advanced,” Jatho said.

He urged men aged 40 and above to discuss prostate cancer screening with health workers, particularly those with a family history of the disease, who should seek earlier assessment.

Jatho said screening begins with a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, which he described as simple, quick and relatively affordable. A digital rectal examination may also be recommended depending on the PSA results.

He dismissed claims that frequent ejaculation prevents prostate cancer, saying there is no scientific evidence to support the belief.

Jatho also urged men to abandon myths linking the disease to witchcraft or sexual behaviour, adding that open discussions about men’s health could help address stigma and encourage early diagnosis.

He called on spouses, families and community leaders to encourage men to seek routine medical check-ups, noting that men are less likely than women and children to seek healthcare services.

He further encouraged men to adopt healthy lifestyles, including eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains, reducing red meat and fatty foods, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising for at least 30 minutes daily and avoiding smoking.

Jatho also challenged primary healthcare workers, including village health teams and community health extension workers, to initiate prostate cancer discussions with men aged 40 and above during routine clinic visits.

He said healthcare workers should promote informed decision-making by explaining available screening options and encouraging men to seek timely assessment.