A recent study conducted by researchers at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) suggests that older men who consume green tea regularly may have a lower risk of prostate cancer, alongside improved weight and cholesterol levels.

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Led by Dr. Emmanuel Amankwah Ntim from the Department of Physiology at the KNUST School of Medical Sciences, the research examined over 400 men aged 40 and above, dividing them into two groups: those who drank green tea and those who did not.

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The study assessed their weight, cholesterol levels, and PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels—a key marker for prostate cancer risk.

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The findings, published in the Journal BMC Nutrition, revealed that regular green tea drinkers were more likely to maintain a healthy weight and better cholesterol levels. Additionally, men aged 60 and above who consumed green tea displayed lower PSA levels, suggesting a potential reduced risk of prostate cancer.

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This trend, however, was not observed in younger participants. The research also indicated a link between lower weight and reduced PSA levels among older men.

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While the results point to a possible protective effect of green tea against prostate cancer in older men, the study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Instead, it highlights a strong association that warrants further investigation.

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Surge in prostate cancer cases

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The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has said that prostate and liver cancers are among the leading causes of death in the country.

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In 2022, a total of 2,395 cases of prostate cancer were recorded in the country, with 1,233 deaths, representing 52 per cent mortality while liver cancer affected a total of 2,656 men in 2022, with 2,390 deaths, representing 90 per cent mortality.

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Data also suggests that only 20 percent of men above 40 have had a prostate cancer screening while 60% of the cases are mostly presented at advanced stages.

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Stakeholders at a maiden National Prostate Cancer Dialogue in 2024 reiterated the need for prostate cancer treatment to be captured on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to reduce the cost burden on patients.

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There are less than one hundred urologist-specialists in the country, influencing treatment gaps at the district and regional levels.

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Professor of Urology and Head of Department of Surgery at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and President of the Ghana Association of Urological Surgeons, Professor James Edward Mensah, is calling for the training of more specialists in the discipline.

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