Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene is making a personal appeal for men to undergo prostate screening after revealing that his brother was diagnosed with stage-four prostate cancer.

Greene shared his family’s experience while announcing plans for St. Paul’s Health Month, which will be observed in October under the theme “Know Your Numbers, Own Your Health.”

He said his brother, Said, appeared physically active but did not learn he had prostate cancer until the disease had already reached an advanced stage.

“When he found out, he was already at stage four,” Greene said.

He thanked the doctors treating his brother and praised him for the discipline he has shown while undergoing treatment. Greene said the diagnosis demonstrated why people should not procrastinate or avoid learning about their health.

“If you are able to catch it — as the saying goes, nip it in the bud — you just might be able to save life and all that goes with life,” he said.

Greene said cancer affects not only the person diagnosed but also relatives, friends and the wider support network. He recalled the emotional impact his sister’s breast cancer diagnosis also had on his family.

As part of Health Month, residents will have access to checks for blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and body mass index, along with prostate and other cancer screenings.

Greene said the programme will combine medical screenings with public education and will adopt a different approach this year by taking some services directly to churches.

The plan could see prostate screenings and other health checks offered to congregations after worship, making the services more accessible and reducing excuses for not participating.

“There must be no excuse by the people where their health is concerned,” Greene said.

He expressed disappointment that many men have failed to take advantage of prostate screenings offered in previous years and urged residents to make regular health checks part of their routine.

“We see too many instances of amputations, too many instances of persons afflicted by things that they can control,” Greene said, linking some serious health outcomes to late diagnosis.

A detailed calendar of activities is expected to be released later.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Greene Makes Personal Appeal for Prostate Screening Ahead of St. Paul’s Health Month.