Although recent years have revealed a higher number of cases of prostate cancer, due to an aging population and better detection of the cancer, statistics show that there has not been an increase in the number of cancer related deaths, says Ferdinando Pereira, one of the 6 urologists at the Dr. Nélio Mendonça Hospital.
In advanced cases, he pointed out that it is necessary to resort to expensive treatments and, therefore, the specialist spoke of the importance of prevention and early diagnosis, especially considering that this is a “silent” disease and the third most likely cause of death after and lung and colorectal cancer. Luckily he said, the island’s cancer treatment facilities are excellent.
Speaking to reporters, Pedro Ramos, the Regional Secretary for Health and Civil Protection, underlined the collaboration of the urology service with primary health care and that patients are identified at a very early stage, and there are currently no waiting lists.”
Within the scope of ‘Blue November,’ Ricardo Sousa, President of the Regional Nucleus of the Portuguese League Against Cancer, said that the League is currently monitoring two patients.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
