Join the ‘Mo Bros’ and raise awareness of prostate cancer

One in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and a man is 35% more likely to be diagnosed with the disease than a woman is with breast cancer. ‘Not all diagnosis requires treatment. This means that many men may develop prostate cancer but live with it for the rest of their lives,’ explains Jaco Gouws, Risk Marketing Actuary at Old Mutual.

What it doesn’t mean, however, is that all men shouldn’t take the health of their prostate seriously. Detected early, prostate cancer is treatable. Radiation therapy and surgery are expensive, however, and Gouws strongly advises that your financial planning should incorporate severe illness cover. ‘The last thing you want if you’re dealing with prostate cancer is the stress of financial pressure,’ he notes.

‘Prostate cancer can be managed,’ says Dr Peter Bond, Chief Medical Officer at Old Mutual. ‘Heredity plays some role, but more importantly, a healthy lifestyle and regular examinations are crucial.’

Early detection of prostate cancer considerably ups the chances of successful treatment – and the best way to ensure early detection is to go for a yearly prostate exam. ‘It’s quick, painless and simple, with no after-effects or side-effects,’ says Bond.

It’s also vital to go for a checkup if you start experiencing symptoms that point to some problem with your prostate, such as difficulty in urinating, blood in the urine, and pain during urination or ejaculation.

Financial worry is one thing you definitely don’t need if you’re dealing with a severe illness. And bear in mind that it’s not only the treatment that will cost you; you also need to consider loss of income while you’re recuperating, which could take weeks or even months.

‘The first financial defence is to belong to a good medical scheme,’ says Gouws. ‘However, many people do not know what their medical scheme covers, and only find out when their claim is rejected. So it’s critical to understand the benefits offered by your scheme and what shortfalls in medical expenses you may face.’

Severe illness cover, like disability is very important to have for a long as you are alive. Many insurance companies offer severe illness cover but they do not all have the same benefits. Some limit you by age and severity and depending on the progression of the illness; you may only receive a portion of your insured amount. It is crucial when choosing your severe illness protection to understand what you will be covered for. Speak to your financial adviser to secure your financial future.