Police Hospital Partners with Cancer UK-Salone for Free Prostate Screening

The Sierra Leone Police Hospital has partnered with Cancer UK-Salone to launch its first-ever free prostate cancer screening for police officers, marking a significant milestone in promoting men’s health within the force.

The screening, held at the Police Hospital in Freetown, aims to encourage early detection and raise awareness about prostate cancer, a disease that predominantly affects men aged 45 and above.

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Dr. John Mumuneh Konteh, Medical Superintendent of the Police Hospital, expressed gratitude to Inspector General of Police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu for supporting the initiative. Dr. Konteh said the exercise reflects the hospital’s progress under IGP Sellu’s leadership and encouraged officers to be patient during the screening, assuring them that the tests would be completed promptly and with full confidentiality.

Representing Cancer UK-Salone, Madam Tina Davies, OBE, OOR, explained that her organization reached out to the Sierra Leone Police through Dr. Konteh, and IGP Sellu promptly endorsed the collaboration. She emphasized that all test results would be handled with professionalism and privacy.

Madam Davies also highlighted the high prevalence of prostate cancer among Black men over 45, describing symptoms such as difficulty urinating, blood in urine, and reduced sexual activity. She reminded officers that early detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment, as prostate cancer is among the most curable forms of the disease.

Before the screening began, officers participated in a question-and-answer session to clarify concerns and better understand the process.

Both the Police Hospital and Cancer UK-Salone expressed appreciation to IGP Sellu for making the initiative possible. The program is expected to serve as a model for future health projects within the Sierra Leone Police, promoting greater awareness and early testing among officers.