AUB Foundation Hosts Master Class on Male Cancers, Urges Media and Government Action on Early Detection

AUB Foundation Hosts Master Class on Male Cancers, Urges Media and Government Action on Early Detection

The Director General of the African Union of Broadcasting, AUB, Gregoire Ndjaka says by crafting narratives that highlight personal journeys and give voice to cancer survivors and their families, the media foster hope, resilience, and a sense of community solidarity that enhances public understanding.

Mr. Ndjaka said this via a video message to open the AUB Foundation Against Cancer (AFAC) Master Classes on Male Cancers. “Our journey begins with a deep dive into the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of male cancers, enabling us to understand the biological, social, and cultural factors involved so that we can create accurate, compelling, and empathetic content that informs without inducing fear”, he said.

Furthermore, he noted that through the art of storytelling, we have the ability to transform abstract health statistics into relatable human experiences.

In a powerful and insightful presentation at the first session of the Master Classes on Male Cancers, medical expert and public health advocate Sami Ben Rhouma delivered a sobering overview of the prevalence and dangers of male-specific cancers, with a particular focus on prostate and bladder cancers.

At a virtual session with audience comprising media professionals from across the continent, Rhouma emphasized the urgent need for both increased public awareness and proactive governmental support in tackling what is rapidly becoming one of Africa’s most pressing health crises.

He explained that prostate cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among men, while bladder cancer, though less frequently discussed, also poses a significant threat. He identified several key risk factors associated with male cancers, including smoking, prolonged exposure to industrial chemicals, and in some cases, genetic predisposition. Bladder cancer, he noted, often presents itself subtly with early symptoms like blood in the urine which is frequently overlooked or dismissed, leading to delayed diagnosis.

Rhouma made a passionate case for early detection through regular medical screening, underscoring that early intervention is often the difference between life and death. He emphasized the need to normalize screening, especially for men 50 year and above.

Beyond public awareness, Rhouma used the platform to highlight low interest in medical research- a disturbing disparity in the global fight against cancer. Africa, he said, is currently 150 years behind in cancer research comparing the continent’s capabilities with those of more developed regions.

He called on African governments to allocate significant funding to medical research, arguing that homegrown solutions, tailored to the genetic and environmental realities of African populations, are the only sustainable way forward.

The AUB Foundation Against Cancer (AFAC) Master Classes on male cancers is a four-part online training programme aimed at equipping media professionals with the tools and knowledge to better inform and educate the public on male cancers. The series includes modules on: Understanding Male Cancers, Ethics and Media Treatment, Storytelling and Testimonials and Prevention Strategies and Awareness.