Significance and Implications of Prostate Cancer: Critical Overview for Future Directions in Africa

Prostate cancer places a heavy economic burden on health care in many countries globally. This is no exception in Africa. It is also described as one of the main factors in mortality rates among men of African descent. The fact that less than 40% of its patients usually present with localized disease may suggest that the projected data from above might have underestimated the disease condition in the sub-Saharan region. From the results of prostate cancer screening, an estimate can be made that most African men in the subregion do not have good information about the disease. Even though current treatment modalities for the disease are effective when used in combination, it largely remains incurable. In this review, we critically explore the impacts of prostate cancer for the benefit and future directions of the African continent. We highlight important detection and treatment strategies and summarize the economic impacts and epidemiological patterns with associated risk factors within the African population. We also discuss the potential of African medicinal plants in the fight against the disease. Furthermore, the application of artificial intelligence in enhancing detection and treatment outcomes is highlighted. This overview provides valuable insights for healthcare practitioners, policymakers, and researchers in African prostate cancer management and prevention efforts.