We must encourage men in Martinique to take charge of their health and overcome the taboos surrounding prostate cancer screening. I emphasize the need for prevention and open dialogue to reduce the impact of this disease on Martinique’s society.
Organized by Air France as part of the «Movember» campaign dedicated to men’s health, Dr. Johan Rose Dite Modestine, a urologist and medical director of the Cancer, Hematology, and Urology Center in Martinique, took the floor to raise public awareness about prostate cancer screening. Here, he discusses the specific characteristics of this disease in Martinique, cultural reluctance toward screening, and the methods available to diagnose this often-silent condition. His message is clear:
«Prevention is essential to reducing the impact of this disease among men in Martinique.»
Providing Information to Improve Care
The doctor emphasizes the importance of making medical information accessible to the general public to encourage men to take charge of their health. «When you’re informed, 80 % of the work is already done,» he says. According to him, raising awareness helps people better understand the disease and encourages men to take a proactive approach to their health.
A disease with significant impacts on quality of life
Prostate cancer affects an organ closely linked to sexuality and continence—fundamental aspects of patients« quality of life. Johan Rose Dite Modestine explains that this unique aspect makes screening difficult for many men, who often prefer to ignore the disease out of fear of the consequences. »A man who feels diminished is not motivated to seek treatment. Often, he would even prefer not to know,” he says. Yet detecting cancer early can greatly reduce complications and improve the prognosis.
Cultural Barriers to Screening
In Martinique, many men adopt a denial mindset when it comes to their health, particularly because of the taboos surrounding prostate cancer. The specialist laments this tendency to «bury one’s head in the sand,» which delays diagnosis and increases risks. He points out that prostate cancer is often asymptomatic in its early stages, which makes screening all the more crucial. «Turning a blind eye to the disease does not prevent it from developing,» he warns.
Screening Options: PSA, Digital Rectal Exam, and MRI
Screening relies primarily on a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test and, if necessary, a digital rectal exam. Although the digital rectal exam is recommended, Dr. Rose Dite Modestine points out that it is not mandatory and that each patient can discuss the matter with their doctor to choose the approach that best suits them. MRI is also an important tool, as it provides a comprehensive image of the prostate and helps identify suspicious areas. However, a biopsy is still necessary for a definitive diagnosis.
Prevention: A Public Health Issue
Prevention is a cornerstone of the fight against prostate cancer. According to the specialist, detecting the disease at an early stage helps reduce its impact on patients« lives and increases treatment options. »If cancer can be diagnosed at an early stage, treatments are more effective and less invasive,” he explains. He encourages men over the age of 50 to see their doctor regularly for health checkups.
Movember: An Opportunity to Raise Awareness
The month of November, also known as «Movember» or «Blue November,» is a key time for raising public awareness about men’s health. On this occasion, Dr. Rose Dite Modestine hopes that more and more men in Martinique will become aware of the importance of getting screened and monitoring their health. He reminds everyone that awareness can save lives and that every man must take an active role in his own health.
