The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is intensifying efforts to raise awareness of prostate cancer and encourage men to take a proactive approach to their health as Saint Lucia observes Prostate Cancer Awareness Month throughout September 2026. Observed under the global theme “Have a PROstate of Mind,” this year’s campaign will focus on increasing awareness, addressing myths and misconceptions surrounding prostate cancer screening, promoting healthy lifestyles and encouraging men to make informed decisions about their prostate health.
Prostate cancer remains one of the most significant health concerns affecting men worldwide and is among the leading cancers diagnosed among men in the Caribbean. In Saint Lucia, prostate cancer continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men. Data from the Ministry of Health indicate that annual diagnosed cases increased from 38 cases in 2016 to 99 cases in 2024, before declining to 55 cases in 2025. The majority of diagnosed cases occur among men 60 years and older, with men between the ages of 60 and 79 representing a particularly important risk group. Prostate cancer mortality also remains a concern, with between 34 and 63 deaths recorded annually between 2016 and 2023. Men aged 70 years and older account for the majority of prostate cancer deaths. These figures reinforce the importance of early detection and timely access to appropriate healthcare services.
The Ministry recognizes, however, that screening and early detection can be affected by fear, embarrassment, stigma, misconceptions about prostate examinations and limited awareness of available services. Some men may also delay seeking care because they are concerned about what a diagnosis might mean or are uncertain about the screening process. The September campaign will therefore place particular emphasis on education and open conversation, helping men understand their risk, know when to seek medical advice and become more comfortable discussing prostate health with healthcare professionals. A key focus will be addressing misconceptions surrounding the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test and Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). Through targeted education, the Ministry will provide men with accurate information about these screening approaches and encourage them to discuss their individual risk and screening options with a healthcare provider.
Throughout September, the Ministry’s Education and Communication Unit, in collaboration with health professionals and other partners, will implement a range of activities designed to bring prostate cancer education and preventive health services closer to men.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month – Key Activities
· Think Like a PRO: Pop-Up Screening Event: workplace-based men’s health initiative initially targeting the predominantly male workforce at Buckeye Partners.
· Community Sensitization “Barbershop Conversations”: Health and Family Life Educators will engage men in informal discussions at Barbershops, Local bars and Other community settings
· Free Community Health Screening: Health screening activities will be taken directly into communities. Special focus will be placed on high-risk and underserved groups. Men will have access to Free health checks, Prostate cancer information, Health counselling, Screening referrals and Further medical assessment where necessary
· Radio, Television and Social Media Outreach: The Ministry will use multiple media platforms to increase awareness. Messaging will focus on: The importance of early detection, PSA testing, Prostate examinations, Addressing myths and misconceptions, Available health services and Screening opportunities.
· Prostate Cancer Awareness Media Cards: A series of informational media cards will be shared across the Ministry’s communication platforms. Content will provide simple, easy-to-understand information on prostate cancer and screening.
· T-Shirt Fridays – “Wear Blue”: Staff, partners and members of the public will be encouraged to wear light-blue or prostate cancer awareness T-shirts every Friday in September.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is encouraging men, particularly those at increased risk, to take responsibility for their health by seeking reliable information and discussing prostate cancer screening with their healthcare providers. The Ministry is also encouraging families, workplaces and communities to support men in making preventive healthcare a priority. “Have a PROstate of Mind.” Know your risk. Know the facts. Talk to your healthcare provider. Take action early.
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