Prostate cancer rising among iTaukei men, says local urologist

Prostate cancer is emerging as one of Fiji’s most serious health threats, with iTaukei men showing higher rates and more advanced stages of the disease at diagnosis.

Senior urologist Dr Rajeev Patel of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services said the number of cases had been increasing steadily over the past 10 to 15 years, with most men only seeking help when the disease had already spread.

“Most prostate cancer cases occur in men aged 50 and above, with incidence rising sharply after 60,” Dr Patel said.

“Unfortunately, many still present with advanced-stage disease, which limits treatment options and worsens survival outcomes.”

He said while improved awareness and testing in urban centres had led to more diagnoses, limited screening and diagnostic services outside major hospitals continued to delay early detection.

Pathology data show iTaukei men are disproportionately affected, reflecting both their larger population share and barriers such as stigma, low health literacy, and high out-of-pocket costs.

Common symptoms:

• Difficulty urinating – weak or interrupted urine flow, trouble starting or stopping, or frequent urination, especially at night.
• Blood in urine or semen – may indicate the cancer is affecting the prostate or surrounding tissues.
• Frequent urge to urinate – even when the bladder is not full.
• Pain or discomfort – often in the lower back, hips, or pelvis, which can suggest cancer has spread.
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue. 

Essential diagnostic and treatment services such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy remain largely unavailable or costly, leaving many men with few options for care.

“Prostate cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among Fijian men,” Dr Patel said, calling for national awareness and early detection programmes to save lives.