Men urged to keep prostate checks going after awareness month ends

As Prostate Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close in September, one life insurance provider is urging Jamaican men not to set aside screening for the rest of the year.

Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer among Jamaican men and is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths here. According to the Global Cancer Observatory, GLOBOCAN, 2022 data, Jamaica recorded 1,599 new cases – accounting for 21.3 per cent of all cancers. The rate stands at 85.7 per 100,000 men per year.

Meanwhile, the mortality rate remains high at 37.1 per 100,000. To put it another way, roughly one Jamaican man in 2,700 may die from prostate cancer, making screening a matter of life and death.

“Some men still see screening as a sign of weakness, but getting tested is an act of strength – for yourself and your family,” said Stacy Goodin, wellness manager at Sagicor Life Jamaica. “Early detection can save lives by improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. Education and open dialogue are key to breaking stigma and fear. Over the years, we have led several screenings to drive this mission.”

Sagicor also promotes insurance plans that offer lump-sum benefits upon cancer diagnosis to help cover medical costs. Some of these plans include free screenings through the Jamaica Cancer Society as part of their benefits package.

Beyond financial protection, Sagicor is pushing for a culture of wellness to help men adopt healthier routines.

“Wellness is more than avoiding illness – it’s about living in balance, making informed choices and strengthening your body’s defences,” Goodin added. “Healthy habits, paired with regular screening, are a powerful combo for men’s health. Prioritising screening and healthy living safeguards not just your health but the well-being of those who depend on you.”