The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) has sounded a fresh alarm over the rapidly rising burden of prostate cancer, warning that the disease has become the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in Uganda and a major cause of cancer-related deaths.
Addressing journalists at the Uganda Media Centre on Friday, Consultant Oncologist Dr. Fred Okuku said the Institute is witnessing an increasing number of men presenting with advanced disease, often due to low awareness, stigma, and widespread myths surrounding male health.
“Prostate cancer has become the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in Uganda,” Dr. Okuku said, noting that most patients report to health facilities when symptoms have already progressed, reducing survival chances and increasing treatment costs.
National trend
Fresh statistics from UCI’s regional centres show the disease’s wide footprint across the country:
Mbarara: Prostate cancer accounts for 18% of all new adult cancer cases (176 cases), making it the leading cancer in the region.
Kampala (UCI Main): Accounts for 11% of new cases (764 cases), ranking as the third most common cancer.
Gulu: Represents 13% of new cases (68 cases), also ranking third.
“These figures underline that prostate cancer is not a regional problem, it is a national health challenge,” Dr. Okuku emphasized.
Men aged 45 and above most at risk
Clinical data shows that men 45 years and older, and especially those with a family history of prostate, breast, or related cancers, face the highest risk. Many only seek help after warning signs such as:
Difficulty passing urine
Blood in urine or semen
Persistent lower back or pelvic pain
Unexplained weight loss
“At this stage, treatment becomes more complicated, more expensive, and survival chances significantly decrease,” Dr. Okuku warned.
Early detection could save lives
Despite its high fatality when detected late, prostate cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Dr. Okuku encouraged routine yearly screening for all men above 45.
“A simple and affordable PSA blood test, combined with a medical examination, is enough to detect potential problems before symptoms arise,” he said, urging men with a family cancer history to screen even earlier.
UCI ramps up treatment and outreach
The Uganda Cancer Institute continues to strengthen diagnosis, treatment and research capacity. Services available include: radiotherapy, surgery, hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, and supportive and palliative care.
UCI, the Ministry of Health, and development partners have also expanded community screening and outreach programmes, especially in rural areas.
The Institute is additionally investing in improved diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, and ensuring consistent availability of essential cancer medicines.
Dr. Okuku stressed that defeating prostate cancer requires nationwide collaboration.
He appealed to:
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Men: Prioritize their health and embrace screening.
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Families: Encourage male members to seek early care.
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Community leaders & workplaces: Promote men’s health.
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Media: Amplify awareness messages.
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Policy makers: Continue supporting prevention, early detection, and treatment infrastructure.
“As the Uganda Cancer Institute, we reaffirm our commitment to fighting prostate cancer and all cancers affecting our population,” he said. “Together, we can stop prostate cancer from being a silent killer. Together, we can save lives.”
