Kola Oyewo, a Nigerian veteran actor and lecturer has shared his personal experience with prostate cancer, after undergoing a successful surgery.
Prostate cancer is a disease that affects the male reproductive gland and can be fatal if not detected and treated early.
During a visit from fellow actor Kunle Afod to his Osun State home, Oyewo opened up about his harrowing experience battling prostate cancer, which he said he was diagnosed with in 2019 after having difficulty passing urine.
He said he had to undergo a series of surgeries to manage his condition, which involved inserting a tube through his abdomen to drain urine from his bladder. He also said he was informed that he would need another surgery that would make him impotent, but he accepted it as his fate.
“I didn’t care about having sex anymore; all I cared about was getting better. I have children, and I am already an old man. Why should I be bothered about sex at this age? I just want to get better and be fine,” he said.
He revealed that he lost six of his friends to similar ailments, and that his wife had been suffering from a stroke since 2017. He said he broke down in tears when he told her about his situation, and that they both prayed for God’s mercy.
He said he had resumed acting after recovering, expressing gratitude to his family, and well-wishers for their support and prayers. Oyewo also advised men to go for regular check-ups and screenings to detect and prevent prostate cancer.
According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, prostate cancer is the 2nd most commonly occurring cancer in men and the 4th most common cancer overall. There were more than 1.4 million new cases of prostate cancer in 2020.
The symptoms of prostate cancer may include difficulty urinating, blood in urine or semen, pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs, and erectile dysfunction. The risk factors for prostate cancer may include age, family history, race, diet, and lifestyle.
The treatment options for prostate cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. The prognosis of prostate cancer depends on the stage, grade, and type of the cancer, as well as the patient’s age, health, and response to treatment.
The prevention of prostate cancer may include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, and getting screened regularly.
Oyewo’s story is a reminder that prostate cancer is not a death sentence, but a challenge that can be overcome with the right attitude, treatment, and support. It is also a call to action for men to take charge of their health and to seek help when they notice any signs or symptoms of the disease.
