Cancer awareness for Men’s Health

By William Ysaguirre (Freelance Writer)

BELIZE CITY, Mon. June 29, 2026

   Early diagnosis and prevention by proper lifestyle choices are the key to surviving cancer, and the key message of a cancer awareness forum for men hosted by the Belize Cancer Society at the Belize City Civic Center last Friday, June 26.

   Former special envoy Kim Simplis Barrow is a cancer survivor, and as president of the Belize Cancer Society, she welcomed Belizean men to learn more about screening for early detection of cancer. Former General Secretary of the Football Federation of Belize, Earl Jones, shared his experiences after he was diagnosed with cancer, and how best to confront this challenge.

   There are many early warning signs of prostate and colorectal cancer which every man should know, as gastroenterologist Dr. Irvin Gabourel explained. He recommended that every man over 30 should schedule regular medical checkups, including screening for prostate and/or colon cancer. Early diagnosis increases the survival rate, and options for treatment become more difficult when the cancer is far advanced.

   Tackling non-communicable diseases is a top priority for the Ministry of Health and Wellness, explained Dr. Jorge Polanco, Director of Hospital Services and Allied Health, as he laid out a road map for men’s health. He also welcomed men’s input and listened to their concerns

   Men should work to overcome the stigma of stoicism about health, and break the silence to voice their concerns and embrace better health, counselled Dr. Claudina Cayetano, Mental Health Advisor of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). To suffer in silence, hide pain, to avoid seeking help are not always the best policy, for while men may want to appear to be strong, it sometimes helps to show feelings and seek help.

   She advised the audience to schedule annual health check-ups to know their numbers: blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol, and to talk openly about mental health, seeking professional help early, and to embrace the support of family and friends.

   Prevention, prevention, prevention was the reiterated message, of how proper diet and regular exercise can help lead to overall health and well-being, as Mike Singh emphasized. Dr. Hugh Sanchez and Francis “Cisco” Woods discussed how families fighting together can help cancer patients overcome fear and increase their chances of survival, and how cancer patients’ solidarity can help support each other.