A recent study conducted by researchers at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) suggests that older men who consume green tea regularly may have a lower risk of prostate cancer, alongside improved weight and cholesterol levels.
Led by Dr. Emmanuel Amankwah Ntim from the Department of Physiology at the KNUST School of Medical Sciences, the research examined over 400 men aged 40 and above, dividing them into two groups: those who drank green tea and those who did not.
The study assessed their weight, cholesterol levels, and PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels—a key marker for prostate cancer risk.
The findings, published in the Journal BMC Nutrition, revealed that regular green tea drinkers were more likely to maintain a healthy weight and better cholesterol levels. Additionally, men aged 60 and above who consumed green tea displayed lower PSA levels, suggesting a potential reduced risk of prostate cancer.
This trend, however, was not observed in younger participants. The research also indicated a link between lower weight and reduced PSA levels among older men.
While the results point to a possible protective effect of green tea against prostate cancer in older men, the study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Instead, it highlights a strong association that warrants further investigation.
Surge in prostate cancer cases
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has said that prostate and liver cancers are among the leading causes of death in the country.
In 2022, a total of 2,395 cases of prostate cancer were recorded in the country, with 1,233 deaths, representing 52 per cent mortality while liver cancer affected a total of 2,656 men in 2022, with 2,390 deaths, representing 90 per cent mortality.
Data also suggests that only 20 percent of men above 40 have had a prostate cancer screening while 60% of the cases are mostly presented at advanced stages.
Stakeholders at a maiden National Prostate Cancer Dialogue in 2024 reiterated the need for prostate cancer treatment to be captured on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to reduce the cost burden on patients.
There are less than one hundred urologist-specialists in the country, influencing treatment gaps at the district and regional levels.
Professor of Urology and Head of Department of Surgery at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and President of the Ghana Association of Urological Surgeons, Professor James Edward Mensah, is calling for the training of more specialists in the discipline.
The founder of Heritage Men’s Clinic, Dr. Rasheed Adedapo emphasizes the importance of men engaging in sexual intercourse at least 21 times a month to reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
In a recent interview on the Dr. Ken show, Dr. Adedapo explained, “The concept in Physiology is if you don’t use it, you lose it. The form of exercise a prostate gland gets is during erection, and that erection comes with sexual intercourse. So the study is actually clear that a man must have sexual intercourse 21 times a month to avoid prostate issues or cardiovascular issues.”
To address the issue, Dr. Adedapo encourages married men to ensure satisfaction in their relationships and suggests seeking alternatives if necessary.
He advises, “If you have a wife, do whatever it takes to please her so she can give it to you 21 times a month. If she doesn’t please you, I advocate to you that you can actually get a side chick.”
Prostate cancer, a common form of cancer, occurs in the small walnut-shaped gland in males responsible for producing seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.
Dr. Adedapo’s recommendations aim to promote overall prostate health and reduce the risk of such health issues.
Watch video below:
According to Dr. Rasheed Adedapo, it’s imperative for a man to have sex 21 times a month in order to prevent prostrate cancer. pic.twitter.com/Nso2e7ZRpg
The notion that frequent sex alone can entirely prevent prostate cancer oversimplifies a complex health issue.
While there is some evidence suggesting a potential connection between sexual activity and prostate health, it is crucial to understand that prostate cancer is influenced by a combination of factors, and a singular focus on sex does not guarantee immunity from the disease.
Here are three reasons why relying solely on frequent sexual activity may not be a foolproof method for preventing prostate cancer:
Complex Nature of Prostate Cancer: Prostate cancer is a multifaceted disease influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
While some studies hint at a link between sexual activity and prostate health, this association is intricate and likely involves various factors. Age, family history, and ethnicity also contribute to prostate cancer risk.
Limited and Inconsistent Research Findings: Scientific evidence regarding the relationship between sexual activity and prostate cancer prevention is not entirely consistent. While some studies propose a potential protective effect, others find no significant association.
Ongoing research is needed to establish a clear and reliable connection, and caution is advised when interpreting findings based on limited or inconsistent evidence.
Healthier Lifestyle Factors Matter: Prostate health is intertwined with overall well-being. Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption is essential for maintaining good prostate health. Sexual activity should be viewed as one aspect of a broader healthy lifestyle rather than a standalone preventive measure.
In conclusion, while there may be suggestive evidence of potential benefits from sexual activity for prostate health, it should not be considered a guaranteed or sole preventive measure for prostate cancer.
A holistic approach to health, incorporating regular medical check-ups and embracing a healthy lifestyle, remains crucial for reducing the risk of prostate cancer and promoting overall well-being.
A total of 234 men died of prostate cancer in Ghana from 2013 to 2022, a report in the Journal of the West African College of Surgeons has revealed. The report said the deaths were caused by the aggressive nature of the disease and its late diagnosis. According to the report, clinical records of males who died of the condition at a tertiary hospital in Ghana ranged in age from 40 to 90 years. Men between the ages of 60 and 79 recorded the highest deaths. 51.3 percent of the 234 fatalities died within two years of diagnosis, 23.0 per cent died between two and five years after diagnosis, and a quarter lived for more than five years.
The report also showed that there was a slow uptake of newer treatment strategies for metastatic prostate cancer, confirming literature suggesting that blacks have poorer outcomes due to the disease’s aggressive nature.
Prostate cancer (PCa) is cancer that occurs in the prostate. It is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide and the fifth leading cause of cancer death among men in 2020.
PCa is the second biggest cause of male cancer fatalities in Ghana and the most common male cancer seen at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. The disease may not create symptoms in its initial stages, but in its advanced state, one might experience trouble urinating, decreased force in the stream of urine, blood in urine, blood in sperm, pain in bone, weight loss without trying, and erectile dysfunction. The disease kills only when it spreads to other parts of the body.
According to the findings, more than 80 per cent of men who died from prostate cancer had advanced illness, as evidenced by high PSA levels, a high T stage on Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), and signs of metastasis.
“43.6 per cent presented with haemoglobin levels below 10ng/dl at diagnosis. These patients had the worst outcome, with 73 per cent dying less than two years after diagnosis,” it stated.
The five-year survival rate of patients who were presented with metastatic disease was 21.2 per cent.
Over 80 per cent were treated with bilateral total orchidectomy, with less than 10 per cent receiving treatment intensification with the newer generation antiandrogens or chemotherapy.
Professor James Edward Mensah, Head of the Department of Surgery, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and President of the Ghana Association of Urological Surgeons told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that early reporting and diagnosis lowered disease mortality.
He said some patients sought medical attention only when they experienced urinary problems or back pain from the spread of the cancer to the bone and spinal cord. “Some even wasted time and resources seeking care at herbal clinics where they were mismanaged for enlarged prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) before being referred when symptoms worsened,” he added.
Prof Mensah emphasised the need for early detection and appropriate intervention in improving disease outcomes.
He urged individuals to seek medical attention as soon as possible and to be aware of the risks and symptoms of prostate cancer. The Urologist advised men at higher risk of getting the disease, including black males, and men with a family history of prostate cancer to conduct PSA blood tests and biopsy.
They should engage their doctors by age 40 and above for proper management. There are distinct types of prostate cancer. Many patients diagnosed with the disease may not die from it.
“Currently, all treatment modalities for localized prostate cancer, including watchful waiting, active surveillance, open radical prostatectomy, brachytherapy, and external beam radiotherapy, are available in the country,” he stated
Prof Mensah, however, stressed the need to train more specialized medical personnel and ensure that the necessary equipment for prostate procedures was available in all regions of the country.
Nurse in-charge of the Urology Clinic at the Volta Regional Hospital in Hohoe, Bridget Letsa, emphasized the crucial role of early detection in increasing the survival rate of prostate cancer.
She expressed concern that many cases of prostate cancer seen at the clinic were already in advanced stages, making treatment challenging.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) during the launch of the 2023 Prostate Cancer Awareness campaign, with the theme “Fighting Prostate Cancer; Early Detection Plays a Critical Role in Survival Rate,” Letsa highlighted that September is recognized internationally as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
She stressed that raising awareness about the disease and conducting screenings were essential because prostate cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men in Ghana.
Letsa noted that prostate cancer often didn’t receive as much attention as breast and cervical cancers, which is why the clinic has taken on the role of advocating for prostate cancer awareness. She believed that spreading awareness would empower communities to stay informed and take prompt action.
Prostate cancer has a genetic component, so men with family members affected by the disease should consider screening.
Yearly screenings are recommended for men above the age of 40, along with adopting healthy lifestyles such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, reduced smoking or alcohol consumption.
In addition to providing daily free screenings and health education at the clinic throughout September, targeted screenings in Hohoe – Adabraka and the Santrokofi, Akpafu, Lolobi, and Likpe areas will benefit hundreds of people.
One beneficiary of the screenings encouraged men to get screened early, emphasizing that prevention is better than cure and early detection can lead to timely treatment.
Given the manifold functions of the prostate, maintaining prostate health holds significant importance for men. Consequently, there arises a necessity to explore indigenous remedies and culinary offerings that can potentially provide support for prostate well-being.
Many of these remedies are readily available in our kitchens and on our farms. One such intriguing yet underexplored option is palm nut soup, which merits investigation for its potential benefits to the prostate.
Palm nut soup is derived from the fruit of the palm tree. A study by Sundram et al. (2003) revealed that the palm fruit (Elaies guineensis) yields palm oil, a semi-solid fat rich in palmitic and oleic acids, alongside fat-soluble components such as vitamin E (tocopherols, tocotrienols), carotenoids, and phytosterols.
While some controversies surround vitamin E and its relation to prostate cancer, a crucial aspect often overlooked is the existence of two primary forms: tocopherols and tocotrienols, exhibiting substantial variations in their proportions.
Remarkably, palm vitamin E is composed of 30% tocopherols and 70% tocotrienols. Tocotrienols, extensively studied, possess nutritional and health attributes encompassing antioxidant properties, cholesterol reduction, anti-cancer effects, and safeguarding against atherosclerosis. These benefits are predominantly attributed to the tocotrienol content.
An emerging development originating from oil palm fruit is the water-soluble phenolic-flavonoid-rich antioxidant complex. This complex, marked by potent antioxidant traits, showcases advantageous effects against diverse cancers, including those of the skin and breast.
Its water solubility opens avenues for its application as nutraceuticals and cosmetics, potentially countering skin aging. A subsequent challenge would be to effectively consolidate these diverse palm constituents into a singular functional food offering, enhancing overall nutrition and well-being.
Vitamin E comprises tocopherols, and within this category, four variants of tocotrienols naturally occur: alpha, beta, gamma, and delta. Tocotrienols can be found in the oils of rice bran, palm fruit, barley, and wheat germ.
Notably, palm fruit contains the highest proportion, particularly the abundant 70% tocotrienols present in the soup.
Furthermore, palm oil stands as the most concentrated natural source of tocotrienols. However, achieving the suggested levels of tocotrienols with health benefits would require consuming a significant quantity of palm oil daily.
This brings forth the practicality of palm nut soup as a more accessible means to attain these essential levels of tocotrienols, given that consuming the oil directly isn’t feasible.
The challenge with Tocopherol
A previous study asserts that supplementing with alpha-tocopherol either doesn’t work or may cause harm—by increasing the risk of cancer and heart disease. This systematic review of randomized, controlled trials published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that supplementing with the alpha-tocopherol form of vitamin E increased the risk of death from all causes( Bjelakovic et al. (2007).
The very most recent study was conducted by Duell et al.(2022) published by the American Heart Association scientific statement suggesting that long-term supplementation with alpha-tocopherol can increase the risk of prostate cancer and heart failure.
Another issue with supplementing with alpha-tocopherol is that high doses of tocopherols interfere with the beneficial effects of tocotrienols 70% in the palm fruit. With too much alpha-tocopherol in the system (from supplements), tocotrienols are blocked from absorption and entry into the bloodstream. The 70% tocotrienols-the benefits
Four studies (Constantinou et al. 2020; Marelli et al. 2019; Sailo et al. 2018; Constantinou et al. 2009) have reported that in a supplement form at higher doses, tocotrienols have great potential against a wide range of cancers, including breast, ovarian, prostate, colon, pancreatic, and skin cancers. They also reduce cancer cell proliferation and induce cancer cell death (i.e. apoptosis), with the most malignant forms of cancer appearing to be most sensitive to the actions of tocotrienols. Unlike tocopherols, tocotrienols have no known contraindications or long-term adverse effects. Other emerging interests
Mohamad et al. (2012) study found that tocotrienols in palm fruit support postmenopausal rats with osteoporosis as they strengthen and more quickly heal bone fractures than other vitamin-E-based supplements.
Sen et al.(2004) on humans suggest that tocotrienols get into the brain faster, where they may improve brain function and health.
Meganathan and Fu(2016) tocotrienols may help slow the buildup of plaque in the arteries and decrease cholesterol levels. Also an overall positive effect on human health.
Getting vitamin E tocotrienols in the diet
Natural vitamin E tocotrienols can be found in palm fruit especially delta- and gamma-tocotrienol, but not at high enough doses to be therapeutic. But is enough for prostate support especially for those concerned about reducing their risk of prostate cancer. Even those diagnosed with prostate cancer could also incorporate palm nut soup as part of their diet plan.
However, for those interested in vitamin E tocotrienols supplement look out for the Delta- and gamma-tocotrienols; they are the most potent form and annatto –is a natural food additive is the only known plant that contains 100 percent delta- and gamma-tocotrienol, with no other forms of tocotrienols and no tocopherols. I shall tell you more about that plant.
Also, make sure for the supplement you do not take more than 30 mg/d of tocopherols from other supplements. Most multivitamins and vitamin E supplements contain tocopherols, rather than tocotrienols, so check the labels of your current supplements.
I adapted this table from Kresser Chris(2022) to provide a guide for the recommended dosages of tocotrienol for various uses based on the current clinical evidence.
Take home
Palm fruit used for palm nut soup has 70% of tocotrienols. Hence, it is good for prostate health. For those interested in the supplement form of vitamin E tocotrienols; you can get them in the pharmacy. Vitamin E, like many vitamins, has several isoforms that occur naturally in foods. These isoforms are called vitamers and include 4 tocopherols and 4 tocotrienols, each labelled alpha, beta, delta, or gamma.
The study on vitamin E and cancer risk eventually used a single vitamer, alpha-tocopherol, which may be one reason for the negative findings. Evidence indicates other vitamins of E play a more prominent role in reducing the risk of cancer, including prostate cancer. Tocotrienols were also not part of the negative study. When next you are buying vitamin E make sure you do not buy tocopherol, choose tocotrienols. However, just in case there are mixed tocopherols and/or tocotrienol along with selenium may still be beneficial for the reduction of prostate cancer risk. Until that, the home delicacy of palm soup should be helpful.
NB:
Prof. Nyarkotey has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations to justify his write-ups. My articles are for educational purposes and do not serve as Medical advice for Treatment. I aim to educate the public about evidence-based scientific Naturopathic Therapies.
Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo Prampram, Sam Nartey George, has criticised supporters of the LGBTQ+ community who argue for the right of individuals to choose their own gender, expressing disagreement with their stance.
The MP intimates that the LGBTQ+ people are trying to play God by assigning different sex to themselves order than the ones they were born with. He said this in an interview on Ghanaweb.
The MP posited that God is now showing the LGBTQI community his power because people who were born male but have through operations to become females (female transgenders) are now getting prostate cancer which is a known disease for adult males.
“You see this is at the base of everything, there is a difference between sex and gender. The LGBTQ group try to make them one and the same to confuse the world but you can confuse Sam George and his people.
“Because we know what the difference is. Sex is a binary contrast that is biological and determined by God, you can’t change it. Sex is male and female, that is it. There is nothing beyond male and female.
“… and that is why those of them who claim that they have transgendered from male to female and they are unlucky and they get prostate cancer. You would see the person dressed as a woman with makeup and then she is treating prostate cancer. Transgender women are now having to deal with prostate cancer, you can’t cheat God,” he said.
CANCER! As scary as the word sounds, it means a lot of different things.
However, the most common among all these is the disease. This is caused by an uncontrolled division of abnormal cells in a part of the body. There are many types of cancers that attack the human body and almost all of them are fatal.
Some take time to take adverse effects while others are just not time friendly. The GLOBOCAN estimates that 16,600 cases of cancer occur annually in Ghana, yielding an age-standardized rate of 109.5 cases per 100,000 persons. Each year, the world celebrates “World Cancer Day” in the month of February to create awareness about the various types, symptoms, and prevention of cancer.
Often, cancer patients need extra care and attention to help them go through relatively tough periods of rehabilitation and recovery. This year, World Cancer Day is slated for Saturday, 4th February 2023 under the theme: “Close the care gap”.
Jumia, Africa’s leading e-commerce company discusses the importance of cancer awareness by highlighting the most common cancers in Ghana as well as their causes and possible ways of prevention below.
Breast Cancer – Maybe the most talked about or most popular cancer worldwide. According to the 2020 GLOBOCAN report, Ghana is estimated to record 4,645 (20.4%) new breast cancer cases which are more than double the estimated 2,062 new cases in 2012, with close to 50% of them dying;
the high mortality rate is mainly due to late-stage presentation. Most of the women affected with breast cancer are below the age of 50 in Ghana (58.2%). Breast cancer happens when cells in your breast grow and divide in an uncontrolled way, creating a mass of tissue called a tumor.
Signs of breast cancer can include feeling a lump in your breast, experiencing a change in the size of your breast, and seeing changes to the skin on your breasts. Mammograms, self-checks, and regular checks by health professionals can help with early detection. Early detection helps breast cancer patients to live long fulfilling lives while late-stage detection can be fatal.
Lung Cancer – According to the WHO data published in 2020 Lung Cancers Deaths in Ghana reached 237 or 0.14% of total deaths. This is alarming considering the major cause of lung cancer is smoking of cigarettes.
Lung cancer also can be caused by using other types of tobacco (such as pipes or cigars), breathing secondhand smoke, being exposed to substances such as asbestos or radon at home or work, and having a family history of lung cancer.
The best way to prevent lung cancer is to avoid smoking of any form whether primary or secondary. Lung cancer is treated in several ways, depending on the type of lung cancer and how far it has spread.
People with non-small cell lung cancer can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these treatments. People with small cell lung cancer are usually treated with radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
Prostate Cancer – Prostate cancer is cancer that occurs in the prostate. The prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland in males that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate cancer affects about 60% of black men. The Ghana Cancer Control Strategy plan document revealed that 200 out of every 100,000 men in Ghana are suffering from this cancer.
While some types of prostate cancer grow slowly and may need minimal or even no treatment, other types are aggressive and can spread quickly. Prostate cancer that’s detected early, when it’s still confined to the prostate gland has the best chance for successful treatment.
Usually, there are no signs or symptoms in its early stages. However, more advanced cases can cause signs and symptoms such as trouble urinating, decreased force in the stream of urine, blood in the urine, blood in the semen, bone pain, losing weight without trying, and erectile dysfunction.
Many health professionals advise men to reduce their risks of prostate cancer by choosing a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and frequent medical checks to know their status.
Cervical Cancer – Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix; the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, play a role in causing most cervical cancer.
Current estimates from the ecancer organization indicate that every year 2,797 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 1,699 die from the disease in Ghana
This is quite alarming and should be given extra attention. Early-stage cervical cancer generally produces no signs or symptoms. However, signs and symptoms of more-advanced cervical cancer include, vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause, watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and have a foul odor, and pelvic pain or pain during intercourse. There are many risk factors that we should take into account.
These include Risk factors for cervical cancer include having many sexual partners, Early sexual activity, having sex at an early age, having other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), a weakened immune system, smoking, and exposure to miscarriage prevention drugs. To help prevent or reduce these risks, women are advised to get the HPV vaccine and have routine Pap tests, practice safe sex and avoid smoking.
Colon/rectum Cancer – Maybe the least prevalent of the cancers mentioned so far. In Ghana, the incidence of colon cancer remains low at 3.9 cases per 100,000. However, it is a serious issue and shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Common causes of colorectal cancer are lack of regular physical activity, having diets low in fruit and vegetables, a low-fiber and high-fat diet, or a diet high in processed meats, being overweight, and obesity alcohol consumption and tobacco use.
Many doctors and health professionals suggest that people may reduce their risk of developing colorectal cancer by increasing physical activity, keeping a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco.
As the world observes World Cancer Day on 4th February 2023, it is imperative that education about all cancers become widespread in rural and urban areas. Parents and guardians should teach their wards, health professionals should always advise and educate patients about the risk factors and preventive measures.
Above all things, patients living with cancer or undergoing treatments deserve all the care and attention they can get. Stigmatization of cancer patients should be completely avoided while cancer survivors should be encouraged to share their stories in order to motivate others going through similar challenges.
In the second episode of the Vodafone Healthline Spin-off show, Dr Paul Yegbe, a prominent urologist, discussed various signs that may signal prostate problems in men.
He explained that one of the most prevalent concerns that men face is prostate gland enlargement.
According to him, the enlargement of the prostate can produce a block in urine flow because the tube that transports urine from the bladder through the centre of the prostate is restricted by the enlargement.
He mentioned that this illness can cause urinary symptoms that can worsen over time.
“Because there is a narrowing as a result of the enlargement of the prostate, there may be some urinary problems such as a delay in urination, intermittency in urination, and the straining of urine by pressing against one’s abdominal walls,” Dr Yegbe told host Frema Asiedu on the Vodafone Healthline spin-off show.
He warned that if left untreated, men with enlarged prostates could develop issues such as urinary tract infections, which can cause pain during urination, and kidney failure due to urine retention.
Dr Yegbe cautioned that when these signs and symptoms develop, it is critical to get medical assistance.
Aside from prostate illnesses, the show emphasised ginger’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics, as well as its capacity to improve digestion, relieve nausea and vomiting, aid in weight loss, and help with arthritis.
Vodafone Healthline has been on the air for over a decade and is still regarded as the country’s most important and informative health and wellness platform.
Through the Vodafone Healthline show, Vodafone Ghana has provided free medical education and interventions to the Ghanaian public. The show keeps giving out useful information through interesting content on selected media outlets and social media.
The Vodafone Healthline Spin-Off edition airs on Mondays from 9:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and on Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Ghanaian satirist Kwaku Sintim-Misa has disclosed that he has been battling prostate cancer for a year.
In an exclusive interview on the JoyNews’ AM Show, KSM, as he is popularly known, revealed his health condition.
The satirist said he had to undergo surgery to have some relief.
“I’ve been through a battle with prostate cancer in the last year. I was in the US and I had to go through prostatectomy. That’s a very radical surgery to get rid of your entire prostrate”, he said.
Narrating circumstances leading to discovering that he had this condition, KSM who turned 66 two days ago, said he eventually decided to go check his testosterone level after failed attempts to persuade him. He said his friend who had started working at a health institution got him to check it finally and it turned out that his PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) levels were high.
“It started when a friend of mine told me he was now working with the American Rejuvenation centre, so he wants me to come and do a checkup; to come and check my PSA. I kept stalling. So at one point I said I’ll go, like I’m doing him a favor. And when I did the checkup, the guy said ‘actually your PSA levels are very high. And I’m not comfortable with your PSA level,” he added.
The satirist shared that he knew his PSA levels were very high, but felt strong because he embarks on daily exercises.
“I do at least 5 kilometer walk every morning,” he indicated.
According to the TV personality, he did not experience any symptoms but found out his prostrate was cancerous upon further checkups.
“I didn’t have any symptoms. I go for my walk, no tiredness, no loss of appetite, no blood in urine, no painful ejaculation,” he said.
KSM therefore urged black men, especially from age 30 to “do your PSA checks. There’s a difference between being fit and being healthy”, he added.
Noted for his satires, Kwaku Sintim-Misa has been the host of the popular KSM Show on which he entertains and educates the public by throwing light on issues in the country on a lighter note.
The satirist has also been involved in the acting fraternity. He has featured in the popular American crime series Law and Order.
When he staged Thoughts of a Confused Black Man, a hugely successful one-man show that presented riveting issues regarding race in the United States, KSM became the first African to stage an original Off-Broadway play.
Duran Duran’s original guitarist Andy Taylor has been diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer.
The musician revealed the diagnosis in a letter read by his former bandmates as they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on Saturday.
The event was meant to be as a reunion for the band, whose classic line-up has not played together since 2006.
Taylor said he was “massively disappointed” to miss the show, and had “bought a new guitar” for the occasion.
Singer Simon Le Bon read Taylor’s letter to the audience, which read: “Just over four years ago I was diagnosed with stage four metastatic prostate cancer.
“Many families have experienced the slow burn of this disease and of course we are no different; so I speak from the perspective of a family man but with profound humility to the band, the greatest fans a group could have and this exceptional accolade.”
Taylor, who was born in Tynemouth, wrote that he was receiving “sophisticated life-extending treatment”, but had recently suffered a “setback,” that prevented him travelling to Los Angeles for the ceremony.
“Although my current condition is not immediately life-threatening there is no cure,” he added.
Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Duran Duran were one of the biggest pop bands of their era
Formed in Birmingham, Duran Duran were one of the biggest pop bands of the 1980s, known for their lavish videos and danceable, synthesized pop singles.
They were first band to be inducted at this year’s Hall of Fame concert, and opened the show with a hit-packed medley that included Girls On Film, Hungry Like The Wolf and Ordinary World.
Dolly Parton, Eminem, Lionel Richie, Eurythmics, Pat Benatar, Eminem, Carly Simon, Harry Belafonte and Judas Priest were also added to the Hall of Fame roster.
Parton, whose hits include Jolene, I Will Always Love You and 9 To 5, initially rejected her nomination, saying she didn’t think country music was eligible, but later relented.
“I’m a rock star now!” she said during her acceptance speech.
“Back when they said they were going to induct me into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, I didn’t really think that I’d done enough to deserve that. I didn’t understand at the time. But this is a very, very special night for me.”
Afterwards, the singer performed a star-studded version of Jolene, joined by Pat Benatar, Eurythmics’ singer Annie Lennox, Simon Le Bon, Brandi Carlile, and Judas Priest’s Rob Halford.
Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Parton is now a member of both the country and the rock and roll halls of fame
Eminem was inducted by Dr Dre, who said almost everyone he knew had tried to discourage him from working with a white rapper.
But “I knew that his gifts were undeniable,” Dre said. “Each of us was what the other one needed – and I was willing to bet my entire career on it.”
Eminem, real name Marshall Mathers, used his speech to namecheck the rappers who had influenced him, from pioneers Tupac, Chuck D, Outkast and Snoop Dogg to more underground names like Lord Finesse and JJ Fad.
He did so partly to highlight the Hall of Fame’s lack of recognition for hip-hop (he is only the ninth rap act to be inducted alongside Run DMC, NWA, Jay-Z, LL Cool J, Biggie Smalls, Tupac Shakur, Public Enemy, Beastie Boys and Grandmaster Flash).
“Those were my rock stars, man,” said the musician. “And I just want to say, those are just a few of the names that I hope will be considered in the future for induction. Because without them, a lot of us wouldn’t be here. I know I wouldn’t.”
Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Eminem performed a miniature greatest hits set at the ceremony
Eminem went on to perform his hits My Name Is, Rap God and Sing for the Moment – the latter accompanied by Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, who was sampled on the original song.
He then brought out Ed Sheeran for a live rendition of Stan.
“I’m not supposed to be here tonight,” said Eminem following his set. “One, I’m a rapper; two, I almost died from an overdose; and three, I really had to fight my way through… I’m a high school drop-out with a hip-hop education.”
Janet Jackson inducted her long-time collaborators, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.
The duo started out in the Prince side project The Time before becoming one of America’s most prominent production teams, writing hits like the SOS Band’s Just Be Good To Me, Mary J Blige’s No More Drama, Usher’s U Remind Me and almost all of Jackson’s singles, including What Have You Done For Me Lately, Rhythm Nation, That’s The Way Love Goes and Together Again.
“I feel like we broke through the music industry together,” said Jackson “They taught me so much, and I learned their lessons well.
“When I went to work on what became Control in their hometown of Minneapolis, there was pressure. We felt like we were kids in a sandbox… We talked and laughed so much that sometimes it didn’t even feel like we were making a record.”
Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Jackson recreated the look from her breakthrough 1986 album Control as she inducted her friends and mentors Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis
British metal band Judas Priest took the stage with estranged guitarist KK Downing, who in 2011, playing classics like You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’, Breaking The Law and Living After Midnight.
“I’m the gay guy in the band,” said frontman Rob Halford.
“We call ourselves the heavy metal community, which is all-inclusive, no matter what your sexual identity is, what you look like, or what you believe in or don’t believe in. Everybody’s welcome.”
Eurythmics were inducted by U2’s the Edge, Lionel Richie by Lenny Kravitz, and Carly Simon by Sara Bareilles.
Simon, whose two younger sisters both died in recent weeks, declined to perform, but Barailles took her place, singing Nobody Does It Better, followed by Olivia Rodrigo who delivered a strutting version of You’re So Vain.
Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Olivia Rodrigo was on hand to induct singer-songwriter Carly Simon
Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Eurythmics reunited for a rare performance, playing Missionary Man, Would I Lie to You? and Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)
Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Ed Sheeran performed a surprise duet with Eminem
