Ghanaian comic and media personality Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM)
Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM) cautioned the general public, particularly men, to take consultations with urologists very seriously in order to protect their lives.
A prostate cancer survivor, he gave an exclusive interview to Class News' Prince Benjamin (PB) at the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and Janssen's Prostate Cancer Early Detection Project themed Awareness and Early Diagnosis Saves Life.
Friday, April 28, 2023, the event took place at the Burma Hall, Burma Camp, in Accra.
KSM pondered why people, "especially men," are fast to have a mechanic examine their cars when they suspect a problem due to "unfamiliar noises" but do not visit a doctor when they detect even the smallest bodily anomalies.
"We may wake up with headaches, dizziness, and frequent urination and assume that this is normal," he expressed concern.
"If we take care of our cars, let's do the same for our bodies," he pleaded. "If something is not right, get tested and examined."
KSM is a survivor of prostate cancer.
"The only reason I am standing before you today is because of early detection," he remarked.
His sibling passed away from prostate cancer.
"My own sibling, who passed away at age 62, was unaware. When he realized it, it was already late. Due to his late presentation, we lost him," the radio and television personality disclosed. "I'm talking to you almost at 67."
The message of KSM is that prostate cancer is survivable, but only if detected early.
He discussed the symptoms of the disease.
"Well, fortunately, I did not experience many symptoms from prostate cancer," he said. "I only experienced frequent urination.
"However, the symptoms I am aware of are: unusual dizziness, sometimes blood in the urine, sometimes blood in the stool, and sometimes excessive hunger – unexplained hunger."
However, he emphasized that only a consultation with a licensed medical professional will reveal the veracity and implications of the indications he mentioned and others.
"Early checkups can help save your life," he emphasized.
Mr. Kwaku Sintim-Misa acknowledged that unhealthy behaviors can contribute to prostate cancer, but emphasized the importance of inheriting the disease.
"Knowing that perhaps your father or a member of your family had it is a red flag for you," he cautioned. "Consider the fact that it is hereditary and therefore simple for you to acquire.
On the basis of your PSA levels, your doctor or urologist will be able to determine whether the condition is malignant or merely benign enlargement of the prostate.
In regards to prostate enlargement, he asserted that "most Black men have it." In some circumstances, it could even be large and malignant, he added.
"Cancer spreads when it is present," he noted. Therefore, early detection is necessary so that, if malignant, it can be detected early and treatment can begin before it spreads.
Upon the initial diagnosis of his cancer, he revealed that various tests were conducted to determine if it had affected his kidneys, liver, or blood.
"I had to perform a bone scan to determine if it was in the bones," he explained.
Upon conclusion of the tests, he stated that his condition had not "spread anywhere."
Regarding the creation of awareness through the creative arts, KSM disclosed that he is "working on a piece entitled Crash Landing. And it contains some of these elements."
"As usual, I make you laugh, but I also want you to reflect.
Therefore, you are correct; comedy can be utilized to enlighten on any topic.
He denied knowing when Crash Landing will premiere but confirmed that "it is in the works."