Prostate Cancer

Digital rectal examination and a blood test screening for serum prostate-specific antigen can help to detect prostate cancer in asymptomatic men early, whilst it can still be cured.²

Routine population screening for prostate cancer is not currently recommended in South Africa but informed, patient-based screening is:³

• From the age of 40 in those with a positive family history of prostate and/or breast cancer in a first-degree relative.
• From the age of 50 years in all other males.
• Patients with a history of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and/or clinical suspicion of prostate cancer regardless of age.
   

The goals of treatment for prostate cancer are to delay disease progression, improve quality of life and increase survival.² 

The choice of treatment is dependent on informed patient decision-making, availability of treatment, cost and complications.² 

Cancer patients often face high out-of-pocket medical costs. These extra costs can prevent or delay access to important medical care.⁴ 

One of the priorities in the National Cancer Strategic Framework for South Africa is to improve access to treatment by reducing financial, geographic, logistical and socio-cultural barriers.⁴ 

Sandoz South Africa has a growing portfolio of oncology medications and we are committed to improving both affordability and access to high-quality generics medications for both South African cancer patients and healthcare providers.⁵