Gaps in awareness on prostate cancer remains a problem as the country continues to record prostate cancer cases.
Statistics from the Ministry of Health indicate that in 2024 alone, central hospitals across the country treated 847 prostate cancer outpatients and 73 inpatients.
In 2025, the country recorded 671 prostate cancer outpatients and 58 inpatients.
Chief Consultant Urologist at Kamuzu Central Hospital, Dr Charles Mabedi, said the facility receives between 15 and 20 prostate cancer cases every week, with most patients seeking medical attention when the disease is already at an advanced stage.
“A lot of men are reluctant to seek screening and treatment due to misconceptions that visiting the hospital will negatively impact their sex life and these misconceptions discourage men,” Dr Mabedi said.
Executive Director of Cancer Survivors Quest, Chikhulupiliro Ng’ombe, emphasized that the awareness gap on the disease continues to be a hindrance as it not only limits men’s access to treatment options but also reduces their morality rate.
Ng’ombe emphasised the need to strengthen awareness campaigns on prostate cancer, just as is done with other types of cancers, to enhance prevention and early detection efforts.
“There is little or no awareness about prostate cancer. Every health [centre] offers cancer screening for women but there is none for men. It is really hard for men to access healthcare services, and they have to pay to get screened,” he said.
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, Adrian Chikumbe, said the ministry is implementing several initiatives aimed at addressing barriers that prevent men from seeking medical care early.
In Malawi, only six urologists have been trained to assist cancer patients.
According to the World Health Organisation, prostate cancer is the fourth most common cancer affecting men worldwide, largely due to late diagnosis and limited screening.
