Asogli Yam Festival to champion prostate cancer screening for men

This year’s Asogli Yam Festival would spotlight health, with a special focus on prostate cancer awareness, under the leadership of the Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV.

The highlight of the health initiative is a free prostate cancer screening exercise for men aged 40 and above, scheduled for Saturday, September 13, at the Asogli State Forecourt in Ho Bankoe, which begins at 0900 hours prompt.

Organisers said the screening exercise formed part of activities marking the annual festival and is being held in recognition of September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

In addition to prostate checks, the exercise will include free sugar level testing to help detect early signs of diabetes.

Health officials have advised men taking part in the screening to avoid eating before arriving at the venue to ensure accurate test results.

Togbe Afede XIV has consistently used the Asogli Yam Festival as a platform not only to celebrate culture but also to promote health, unity, and development across the Volta Region.

Community members have welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely given the growing concerns about prostate cancer among Ghanaian men.

Health experts say prostate cancer, when detected early, is highly treatable, and regular screening remains one of the most effective preventive measures.

According to the Ghana Health Service, cases of prostate cancer continue to rise nationwide, making awareness campaigns and community-level interventions crucial.

Festival organisers added that the decision to integrate health into the celebrations underscores the importance of linking cultural heritage with modern wellness initiatives.

“The Asogli Yam Festival is not only about tradition but also about safeguarding the future of our people through health and development,” an organising committee member noted.