WESTMORELAND, Jamaica — In a strong display of community health awareness, more than 200 men gathered at Independence Park, Savanna-la-Mar, on September 25 to participate in a free prostate cancer screening programme. The initiative, spearheaded by the Misty Blue Cancer Care Foundation, formed part of the organisation’s 10th anniversary celebrations.
The turnout exceeded expectations and highlighted the growing willingness among men to confront health issues often avoided due to stigma or cost barriers.
Breaking Down Barriers
For many participants, the event was about more than just a check-up. It represented access to vital healthcare that would otherwise be costly or difficult to secure. Norman Cole of Negril reflected on the impact, noting that the services saved him tens of thousands of dollars while ensuring comprehensive testing.
Others, like Chantilly Gardens resident Victor Sangster, stressed the life-saving importance of early detection. “Too many men wait until it’s too late,” he said. “Events like this remove excuses and give us a chance to act early.”
More Than a Test
The day included prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screenings alongside digital rectal exams (DREs). But it didn’t stop there — participants also benefited from blood pressure, cholesterol, sugar, and ECG checks. For men such as Joshua Grey, the wide range of services reinforced the value of preventative care. “It’s not just one test; they really take care of you here,” he remarked.
A Decade of Service
The Misty Blue Cancer Care Foundation was founded by Dorothy Satchwell, whose personal experience with cancer inspired her to establish a local support network. Over the last decade, the Foundation has become a key partner in Westmoreland’s health landscape, collaborating with the Health Department, the Sandals Foundation, and international supporters to keep annual screenings available.
“This year we aimed for 150 men, but reaching 200 shows the appetite for these services is growing,” Satchwell said.
Community Health in Focus
Health Promotion Officer Gerald Miller underscored the broader benefits. “When men engage in early screening, we not only catch cancers earlier, we also encourage healthier habits overall,” he explained. “That has ripple effects across families and communities.”
Looking Ahead
The event concluded with educational sessions stressing follow-up care and the importance of regular health monitoring. Organisers pledged to continue their work, signalling that the anniversary was not just a milestone, but a launching pad for expanded outreach in years to come.
