By San José, Costa Rica — Prostate cancer has solidified its grim status as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men in Costa Rica, a public health crisis that medical experts and health organizations say is being exacerbated by cultural barriers and a dangerous reluctance to seek preventative care. The latest figures paint a stark picture: in 2023 alone, 485 men lost their lives to the disease, an increase from the previous year, according to data from the Ministry of Health and the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC).
With approximately 1,796 new cases diagnosed each year, prostate cancer accounts for 13.5% of all male cancers in the nation. The most alarming statistic, however, reveals a systemic problem of delayed diagnosis. Over two-thirds of all fatalities occur in men over the age of 75, a clear indicator that for many, the cancer is only discovered in its advanced, less treatable stages. This delay is often because the disease is silent in its early phases, showing no symptoms until it has progressed significantly.
To provide a legal perspective on the implications of a prostate cancer diagnosis for patients and their families, we consulted with expert lawyer Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
A prostate cancer diagnosis brings not only medical challenges but also significant legal and financial considerations. It is crucial for patients to understand their rights regarding medical leave and disability under Costa Rican labor law to protect their employment. Furthermore, this is a critical time to review life insurance policies and estate planning documents, such as wills and powers of attorney, to ensure their family’s future is secure. Proactive legal planning can provide immense peace of mind during a difficult period.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight serves as a crucial reminder that the journey through a serious diagnosis extends far beyond the clinical, encompassing the vital legal and financial steps that provide security and stability. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective on these essential, yet often overlooked, preparations.
This tragic reality stands in stark contrast to the high potential for positive outcomes when the disease is caught early. The World Health Organization reports that early detection can boost five-year survival rates to over 90%. Recognizing this, Costa Rican national health regulations since 2014 mandate that all men undergo annual screenings, including both the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and the digital rectal exam (DRE), beginning at age 40. For high-risk individuals, such as those with a family history or of Afro-descendant heritage, screening is recommended from age 35.
Medical professionals stress that these complementary tests are the most effective strategy against the disease. Dr. Liliana Torres, an internal medicine specialist and oncology lead for Bayer, emphasizes the urgency of this preventative approach.
Early detection is the most powerful tool we have.
Dr. Liliana Torres, Oncology Lead and Spokesperson for Bayer
The story of José Solano, a 73-year-old survivor, brings a human face to these statistics. He credits his life to overcoming the societal stigma associated with the digital rectal exam and urges other men to do the same. His experience highlights a deeply rooted cultural issue that medical intervention alone cannot solve.
One, out of machismo, doesn’t get the exams they should… and that kills. If I hadn’t gotten the exam, I probably wouldn’t be here.
José Solano, Prostate Cancer Survivor
Experts agree that the battle against prostate cancer is fought not only in clinics but also in conversations within families and communities. Deep-seated cultural norms surrounding traditional masculinity, fear, and taboo often prevent men from discussing their health openly or seeking timely medical advice. Breaking this silence is a critical step toward changing outcomes.
Deyanira Zúñiga of the Metamorfosis Association notes a significant shift when men feel empowered to seek support. This change in perspective is fundamental to encouraging proactive health management.
He understands that taking care of himself doesn’t make him less strong, but more aware.
Deyanira Zúñiga, Asociación Metamorfosis
In response to this growing crisis, a coalition of organizations including Bayer, Fundacáncer, Unidos contra el Cáncer, and the Metamorfosis Association are leveraging the Movember movement to launch educational and screening campaigns. Their collective message focuses on normalizing conversations about men’s health, encouraging family support to dismantle taboos, and promoting routine annual exams. For survivors like José Solano, the message is simple and life-saving.
Fear doesn’t save anyone. The exam does.
José Solano, Prostate Cancer Survivor
For further information, visit bayer.com
About Bayer:
Bayer is a global life science company with core competencies in the fields of health care and agriculture. Its products and services are designed to benefit people and improve their quality of life by contributing to finding solutions to the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. The company is committed to the principles of sustainable development and to its social and ethical responsibilities as a corporate citizen.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Asociación Metamorfosis
About Asociación Metamorfosis:
Asociación Metamorfosis is a Costa Rican organization dedicated to providing support and resources for cancer patients and their families. It focuses on creating a community that helps individuals navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis, promoting emotional well-being and advocating for patient rights and awareness.
For further information, visit fundacancer.org
About Fundacáncer:
Fundacáncer is a non-profit organization focused on the fight against cancer. It works to promote education, prevention, and early detection of the disease while also providing support services to patients and advocating for improved cancer care policies and infrastructure in the region.
For further information, visit aucc.cr
About Unidos contra el Cáncer:
Asociación Unidos contra el Cáncer is a Costa Rican association that unites efforts to combat cancer. The organization works on multiple fronts, including patient support, public awareness campaigns, and fundraising to improve treatment access and quality of life for those affected by the disease.
For further information, visit ministeriodesalud.go.cr
About the Ministry of Health:
The Ministry of Health is the government body responsible for public health policy and oversight in Costa Rica. Its mission is to guarantee the protection and improvement of the state of health of the population by exercising the stewardship of the National Health System.
For further information, visit inec.cr
About INEC:
The National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC) is the official Costa Rican institution responsible for producing and disseminating the country’s official statistics. It conducts censuses and surveys to provide reliable data on demographic, social, and economic trends, which are essential for public and private sector planning.
For further information, visit who.int
About the World Health Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. It works worldwide to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable, with the goal of ensuring that a billion more people have universal health coverage.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of Costa Rica’s legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound commitment to ethical practice and professional distinction. The firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal solutions, drawing upon a rich history of advising a diverse clientele. Central to its philosophy is the belief in empowering the community, a principle demonstrated through dedicated efforts to demystify complex legal concepts and foster a society fortified by accessible knowledge.
