By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Reporter
Freetown, Sierra Leone In a groundbreaking initiative, the Sierra Leone Police Hospital, in collaboration with Cancer UK-Salone, has launched its first-ever free prostate cancer screening program for police officers. This initiative aims to promote early detection and raise awareness about prostate cancer, a disease primarily affecting men aged 45 and older.
During the event, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Dr. John Mumuneh Konteh, Medical Superintendent of the Police Hospital, expressed appreciation to Inspector General of Police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu for endorsing the program. “This marks the first time our hospital has undertaken such a medical venture, demonstrating the evolution of the police hospital under IGP Sellu’s leadership,” Dr. Konteh stated.
He urged participating officers to remain patient throughout the screening process, assuring them that tests would be conducted swiftly and with the utmost confidentiality. “Your privacy is our priority,” he emphasized.
Madam Tina Davies, OBE, OOR, representing Cancer UK-Salone, explained how her organization collaborated with Dr. Konteh to facilitate the screening. She commended IGP Sellu for his prompt approval, ensuring that the screening could take place at the police hospital. “All results will be handled with the highest professionalism and confidentiality,” she assured the officers.
Davies highlighted the significance of early detection, noting that prostate cancer predominantly impacts Black men aged 45 and above. She outlined common symptoms, such as difficulty urinating, blood in urine, and reduced sexual activity, emphasizing that early diagnosis greatly enhances the likelihood of successful treatment.
The event also featured a question-and-answer session, allowing officers to voice concerns prior to the screening. This initiative underscores a proactive approach to men’s health within the police force, aiming to foster greater awareness about the preventability and treatability of prostate cancer.
Both the police hospital and Cancer UK-Salone expressed gratitude to IGP Sellu for facilitating this essential health initiative, which is expected to serve as a model for future health programs within the Sierra Leone Police.
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