Prostate Cancer Archives

Patient Stories Gavin Lee – My health, my right

April 1, 2026 Word for Word Media

Gavin Lee recounts the uphill battle of getting his medical scheme to fund his radical cystoprostatectomy.

Gavin Lee (65) lives in Weltevreden Park, Gauteng with his wife. They have two sons and one grandson. In July 2025, Gavin noticed traces of blood in his urine; this prompted him to see his GP. A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test was done and proved to be elevated and Gavin was referred to an oncologist. Here further imaging was done, and an MRI detected a tumour in his prostate as well as in his bladder. Biopsies were done on both which confirmed two primary cancers: Stage…

For the boys Importance of genetic testing in prostate cancer

October 1, 2025 Word for Word Media

#SpreadTheHope

Kusha Kalideen unpacks why genetic testing helps determine prostate cancer treatment, specifically with the use of the targeted drugs, PARPi.

You can listen to this article below, or by using your favourite podcast player at pod.link/oncologybuddies

Metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is an aggressive, advanced form of prostate cancer associated with poor prognosis. While treatment options are limited, a class of cancer drugs, known as poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi), has shown improved survival and reduced disease progression in a subset of prostate cancer patients. As a result, PARPi have been approved for use…

Oncology Man Richard Melville – The long wait

August 4, 2025 Word for Word Media

#SpreadTheHope

After four years of waiting for radiation, Richard Melville finally got it through a private-public hospital partnership. He tells us how the delay in treatment has affected his quality of life.

Richard Melville (71) lives in Randburg, Gauteng with his caregiver and spiritual son, Richard Taylor (34). In May 2021, Richard noticed he had slow urinary discharge, so he went to casualty at a private hospital. Various tests were done (prostate-specific antigen level test and digital rectal exam). Since he is a pensioner and doesn’t have medical aid, he was referred to Helen Joseph Hospital (HJH). Richard was admitted…

For the boys The benefits of support groups

August 4, 2025 Word for Word Media

#SpreadTheHope

We learn about the benefits of support groups, specifically treatment specific support groups for prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is known to cause significant psychosocial distress, with 30-50% of men reporting a psychosocial burden due to their diagnosis, regardless of disease stage or progression.1 The initial diagnosis of cancer is usually highly stressful for men and their families. This is followed by the anxiety of deciding which is the best treatment option (in settings where options are available), followed by coping with side effects that are often highly embarrassing and frustrating for men. The subsequent ongoing monitoring further adds to the…

Oncology Man Prostate health on your plate

June 2, 2025 Word for Word Media

#SpreadTheHope

Did you know prevention can start on your plate? Lailaa Cajee expands on prostate health on your plate.

You can listen to this article below, or by using your favourite podcast player at pod.link/oncologybuddies

Let’s be honest, when we talk about men’s health in SA, prostate health isn’t usually top of mind. But with prostate cancer ranking as one of the leading cancers affecting South African men, it’s time we changed the narrative. Believe it or not, prevention can start right on your plate. Small, consistent changes, rooted in local foods, can make a world of difference. You…

Oncology Man Rev Kosie Loots – Unapologetically open

July 31, 2024 Word for Word Media

#SpreadTheHope

Reverend Kosie Loots shares how his faith, family, and friends pulled him through the toughest time of prostate cancer.

You can listen to this article below, or by using your favourite podcast player at pod.link/oncologybuddies

Reverend Kosie Loots (76) lives in Randburg, Gauteng with his wife, Christine. They have two children and three grandchildren. Regular check-ups I firmly believe that taking care of my physical health is essential. In 1978 I made a promise to myself and the Lord to visit my doctor every six months for regular check-ups. During these visits, my PSA count was consistently normal until the results from March…

Oncology Man Originator brands vs generics

July 31, 2024 Word for Word Media

#SpreadTheHope

Comfort Maluleke, senior case manager at Campaigning for Cancer, offers guidance in understanding originator brands vs generics when navigating prostate cancer treatment.

You can listen to this article below, or by using your favourite podcast player at pod.link/oncologybuddies

Prostate cancer is a complex and challenging disease that places significant emotional and mental strain on patients. According to the 2019 National Cancer Registry, prostate cancer affects 1 in 15 men in SA. Navigating through the intricacies of the disease, understanding its progression, and selecting appropriate treatment options can be daunting. As a senior case manager, I assist patients and doctors to gain access to…

Oncology Man Diagnosis and radiation: what every man should know

July 31, 2024 Word for Word Media

#SpreadTheHope

Dr Shivona Moodley, a radiation oncologist, explains the diagnostic process as well as the role of radiation in prostate cancer.

You can listen to this article below, or by using your favourite podcast player at pod.link/oncologybuddies

Prostate cancer is a malignant disease that starts in the prostate gland. Many patients are asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis and screening to detected early-stage disease, especially in high-risk populations, which often leads to curative treatments with good long-term quality of life. How is prostate cancer diagnosed? PSA testing Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein that is produced by the prostate and tested…

Kidney Cancer Louis Wilson – Life will carry on

July 31, 2024 Word for Word Media

#SpreadTheHope

A year after Louis Wilson had brachytherapy to treat prostate cancer, he underwent cryoablation to treat a newly diagnosed primary kidney cancer.

You can listen to this article below, or by using your favourite podcast player at pod.link/oncologybuddies

Louis Wilson (74) and his wife, Pam, live in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. In February 2023, Louis was diagnosed with prostate cancer and treated with brachytherapy (where radioactive seeds are placed in the prostate gland). Louis says it did concern him when he heard the diagnosis but adds that prostate cancer is quite common in his circle of friends and all…

For the boys Reframing sexuality for men on ADT

June 2, 2024 Word for Word Media

#SpreadTheHope

The management of sexual dysfunction caused by androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer is a critical aspect of survivorship; Dr Jireh Serfontein expands on this.

You can listen to this article below, or by using your favourite podcast player at pod.link/oncologybuddies

Prostate cancer is a prevalent malignancy in men, and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a cornerstone in the management of advanced disease. Sexual dysfunction is a common adverse effect, with rates approaching 80 – 90% in men undergoing ADT for advanced prostate carcinoma. It’s essential to provide state-of-the-art review and management strategies for sexual…

For the boys Encouraging men to open up about prostate cancer: A guide for families

June 2, 2024 Word for Word Media

#SpreadTheHope

Robert Teunissen explores strategies to help men be open about their prostate cancer and offers families simple approaches to support their loved ones through this challenging journey.

You can listen to this article below, or by using your favourite podcast player at pod.link/oncologybuddies

Prostate cancer is a significant health concern that affects many men worldwide. Despite its prevalence, men often find it challenging to discuss their prostate cancer experiences openly. This reluctance to talk about it can stem from various factors, including stigma, fear, and a lack of awareness. However, creating a supportive environment where…

How is it diagnosed? How is prostate cancer diagnosed?

February 7, 2024 Word for Word Media

#SpreadTheHope

Dr Shauli Minkowitz navigates the diagnostic landscape of prostate cancer in 10 easy steps.

You can listen to this article below, or by using your favourite podcast player at pod.link/oncologybuddies

Prostate cancer, a prevalent health concern among all aging men especially black South Africans, demands early detection for effective management. The diagnostic journey often involves a multi-faceted approach, tailored to individual risk factors and symptoms. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test Blood levels of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate, can be measured at any lab to assess for potential abnormalities. Elevated PSA levels indicate a prostate problem but…