On January 21, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) hosted an event titled “Addressing Prostate Cancer and Promoting Men’s Sexual and Reproductive Health.” This event brought together experts, survivors, and policymakers to discuss critical issues surrounding men’s health, with a particular focus on prostate cancer—the fourth most common cancer globally. The agenda covered a wide range of topics, from global epidemiology to survivor perspectives, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to address men’s sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and prostate cancer management.
Key Themes and Discussions
- Global Epidemiology of Prostate Cancer
Dr. Prebo Barango, a cross-cutting specialist from WHO’s Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) department, presented data on the global burden of prostate cancer. He emphasized the rising incidence rates, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where access to screening and treatment remains limited. Early detection and improved diagnostic tools, such as prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET-CT scans, were highlighted as critical for reducing mortality rates. - Services for Prostate Cancer Screening and Treatment
Dr. Massimo Valerio, Chief of Urology at Geneva University Hospitals, discussed advancements in prostate cancer screening and treatment. He highlighted the importance of multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) and risk calculators to reduce overdiagnosis and overtreatment, while ensuring timely intervention for clinically significant cases. - Survivor Perspectives on Sexual Health
Sanjay Acharya, a prostate cancer survivor, shared his personal journey, focusing on the impact of cancer treatment on sexual health. His testimony underscored the need for biopsychosocial rehabilitation to address the psychological and relational challenges faced by survivors and their partners. - Addressing Masculinities in SRH Services
Oswaldo Montoya from the Men Engage Alliance explored how traditional notions of masculinity often deter men from seeking SRH services. He advocated for culturally sensitive approaches to encourage men to prioritize their health, particularly in the context of prostate cancer screening and treatment. - Q&A and Key Takeaways
The event concluded with a Q&A session and closing remarks by Dr. Pascale Allotey, Director of WHO’s Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health. She emphasized the importance of integrating SRH services into broader health systems and fostering global collaboration to address the unmet needs of men’s health.
Challenges and Opportunities
- Overdiagnosis and Overtreatment: Despite advancements in diagnostics, prostate cancer management continues to face challenges related to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Risk-adapted screening strategies and personalized treatment approaches are essential to mitigate these issues.
- Sexual Dysfunction and Rehabilitation: Prostate cancer treatments often lead to sexual dysfunction, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life. Guidelines for sexual health care, such as those developed by an international panel, provide evidence-based recommendations for rehabilitation.
- Global Disparities: Access to prostate cancer screening and treatment remains uneven, with significant gaps in low-resource settings. Strengthening health systems and leveraging innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), can help bridge these disparities.
The Way Forward
The WHO event underscored the need for a holistic approach to men’s health, integrating prostate cancer management with broader SRH services. Key recommendations include:
- Expanding access to early detection and diagnostic tools in underserved regions.
- Promoting patient-centered care that addresses the physical, psychological, and social impacts of prostate cancer.
- Encouraging men’s engagement in health services through culturally sensitive interventions.
- Investing in research and innovation to develop more effective and less invasive treatment options.
Prostate cancer is not just a medical issue but a global health challenge that requires coordinated efforts across sectors. By addressing the unique needs of men and leveraging advancements in diagnostics and treatment, we can improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for patients and their families. As Dr. Allotey aptly noted, “Sexual and reproductive health should never be relegated to the margins of healthcare, but recognized as critical for the overall well-being of individuals and the communities in which they live”.
For more details on the event, visit the WHO event page.
