**Early Detection of Prostate and Cervical Cancer Can Save Lives**
*Zimbabwe, 2026* – A recent article on My Zimbabwe News urges men and women to seek medical attention promptly if they notice certain symptoms that may indicate prostate or cervical cancer. The piece highlights that both cancers can be treated more successfully when identified early and provides practical guidance on recognising warning signs, screening options, and preventive measures.
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### Global and Local Impact
– **Prostate cancer** caused an estimated **419,849 deaths worldwide in 2024**.
– **Cervical cancer** accounted for about **280,000 deaths in the same year**.
– In the United Kingdom, **12,300 deaths** from prostate cancer were recorded between 2022 and 2024.
These figures underscore the importance of early symptom recognition and timely medical consultation.
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### Prostate Cancer: Symptoms to Watch For
Prostate cancer often begins without noticeable symptoms, especially when it originates in the outer part of the gland. When symptoms do appear, they typically involve urinary changes:
| Symptom | Description |
|———|————-|
| Difficulty starting to urinate | Trouble initiating the flow of urine |
| Weak or interrupted flow | Urine stream that is thin or stops and starts |
| Urinary urgency | A sudden, strong need to urinate |
| Increased frequency | Needing to urinate more often, including during the night |
| Incomplete bladder emptying | Feeling that the bladder is not fully emptied |
| Blood in urine or semen | Hematuria or haematospermia |
| Erectile dysfunction | Problems beginning or maintaining an erection |
Advanced disease may present with **lower back pain** or **unexplained weight loss**. These symptoms can also arise from benign conditions such as an enlarged prostate or prostatitis, but any new, worsening, or unusual change should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Men concerned about their risk can request a **prostate‑specific antigen (PSA) blood test**. While an abnormal PSA level does not confirm cancer, doctors may use it alongside a medical history, physical examination, and further investigations to determine the next steps. Individuals with a close family history of prostate cancer or known genetic predispositions may need a more personalised discussion about testing.
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### Cervical Cancer: Visible Warning Signs
Cervical cancer originates in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Persistent infection with high‑risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types is the primary cause. The most noticeable warning signs include:
– **Unusual vaginal bleeding**: bleeding during or after sex, between periods, heavier periods, or bleeding after menopause.
– **Changes in vaginal discharge**: new unpleasant odor or altered appearance.
– **Pain**: during intercourse, in the lower back, between the hip bones, or in the lower abdomen.
These symptoms can also result from fibroids, endometriosis, infections, or hormonal changes, but they warrant prompt medical evaluation. Patients are encouraged to seek care without delay, even if they feel embarrassed, as clinicians are accustomed to discussing bleeding, discharge, and pain. Patients may request a chaperone or another trusted person to be present during examinations, where local arrangements allow.
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### Prevention Through Vaccination and Screening
**HPV vaccination** protects against the high‑risk virus types responsible for most cervical cancers. Screening can detect HPV infection or abnormal cells before they become invasive cancer, allowing early treatment. The World Health Organization’s 90–70–90 targets aim to:
1. Vaccinate 90 % of girls against HPV by age 15.
2. Screen 70 % of women with a high‑performance test by ages 35 and 45.
3. Treat 90 % of women with pre‑cancer or invasive cancer.
Countries implement these targets through varying programmes and age ranges, so individuals should follow the schedule offered by their local health service rather than wait for symptoms.
Screening does not replace medical attention. Pre‑cancerous changes may be asymptomatic, and unusual bleeding or pain may require examination even after a recent screening. Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact a GP, clinic, or appropriate health service promptly and describe the changes, onset, and
Article and image source: myzimbabwe.co.zw
