Half of men with prostate cancer in Colombia do not receive psychological support.

Prostate cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer among men in Colombia, with more than 65,000 reported cases . Despite medical advances that allow for ten-year survival rates of up to 90% if detected early, the emotional and psychological impact of the disease remains a neglected aspect.

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According to recent data, 46% of men diagnosed in the country do not receive any type of psychological support during their treatment. A diagnosis of this condition often causes emotional distress such as fear, anxiety, and uncertainty.

Research indicates that one in five men with prostate cancer experience these emotions long-term, which can impact their quality of life and relationships with others. Furthermore, treatments can affect the patient's perception of masculinity and self-esteem.

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In this context, organizations such as the Luz Rosa Corporation and the pharmaceutical company Bayer have called for including the emotional component in addressing the disease. “ Early detection is the key to successful treatment. Getting tested early and maintaining a self-care routine allows for early detection, which translates into therapeutic management with a greater chance of being effective and more years free of disease progression ,” said Alejandra Toro, founder of the Luz Rosa Corporation.

Early diagnosis not only improves clinical outcomes but also reduces the emotional impact. Detecting the disease in its early stages facilitates access to less aggressive treatments and reduces anxiety levels. However, the silent nature of prostate cancer in its early stages continues to be an obstacle to early detection. In Latin America, 81% of deaths from this cause occur in advanced stages.

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“ Detecting this type of cancer early can make a difference. This requires two complementary tests: the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and a digital rectal exam, which are recommended starting at age 50, or at age 40 if there is a family history. However, sometimes fear, misinformation, and cultural prejudices continue to be significant barriers. An estimated 58% of men have never undergone these tests, and 17.9% avoid them out of fear or shame ,” said Dr. Liliana Torres, medical leader of oncology at Bayer.

Specialists agree that a comprehensive approach to prostate cancer should include safe spaces for emotional expression, as well as strengthening support networks and actively involving the family. The goal is to prevent the patient from facing a process alone that affects not only their physical health but also their mental and social well-being.

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In the context of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, the organizing organizations reiterated their call to break the silence , attend medical checkups, and foster a culture of care and support.