By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – An alarming public health crisis is quietly unfolding across Latin America and the Caribbean, as new data reveals that prostate cancer affects a staggering 226,000 men annually. According to official figures released by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), prostate cancer, alongside lung and colorectal cancers, now represents the most frequent malignancies diagnosed in the male population of the region, signaling an urgent need for greater awareness and preventive action.
This sobering statistic casts a spotlight on a disease often shrouded in silence and misinformation. Health experts are now issuing a unified call for a fundamental shift in how men approach their health, emphasizing that modern lifestyle choices are playing a significant role in this escalating trend. The challenge is not merely medical but cultural, requiring a concerted effort to dismantle long-standing stigmas surrounding men’s health and regular check-ups.
To understand the legal framework and insurance rights available to patients, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who offered his professional analysis on the matter.
A prostate cancer diagnosis initiates a complex journey that extends beyond medical treatment into the legal and insurance realms. Patients in Costa Rica must be proactive in reviewing their insurance policies to understand coverage for advanced treatments and associated disability benefits. Any denial of a claim should be formally challenged, as the law provides mechanisms to protect the insured. Furthermore, this is a critical time to review and update estate planning documents, such as living wills and powers of attorney, to ensure one’s wishes are legally protected.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the legal and financial dimensions of a health crisis are often as daunting as the medical ones. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable guidance, reminding our readers that proactive legal planning is a critical component of a patient’s overall well-being and peace of mind.
Dr. Rafael González, a prominent voice in regional health and Spokesperson for the Central American and Caribbean Federation of Pharmaceutical Laboratories (FEDEFARMA), stressed the critical importance of proactive education. He argues that waiting for symptoms to appear is a dangerous and often tragic mistake, as the most effective tool against the disease is early and consistent screening.
It is necessary to educate men on the need for early and consistent examinations, at least once a year after the age of 50.
Dr. Rafael González, Spokesperson of the Federation of Central American and Caribbean Pharmaceutical Laboratories
Dr. González was quick to dispel common myths surrounding the disease’s origins. He clarified that prostate cancer is not a consequence of sexually transmitted diseases or bacterial infections. Instead, the evidence points toward a clear correlation with lifestyle and environmental factors that have become increasingly prevalent in modern society.
The condition is not associated with any bacteria or sexually transmitted disease. Rather, it is related to a lifestyle that includes the consumption of ultra-processed foods, stress, and obesity.
Dr. Rafael González, Spokesperson of the Federation of Central American and Caribbean Pharmaceutical Laboratories
This linkage to diet and chronic stress underscores a broader health trend in the region. As economies develop, populations are adopting diets higher in processed foods, leading to rising rates of obesity and other non-communicable diseases, which in turn create a fertile ground for conditions like cancer. The call to action, therefore, extends beyond the clinic and into public health policy, workplace wellness programs, and individual daily habits.
Despite the grim statistics, there is a powerful message of hope. The prognosis for prostate cancer is overwhelmingly positive when it is detected in its initial stages. Data shows that an astonishing 99% of men diagnosed early live for five years or more following treatment. This highlights the life-saving potential of a simple, routine blood test—the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test—which can indicate whether any abnormalities require further investigation.
The key recommendation from health authorities is clear: men, particularly those aged 50 and over, must not wait to experience symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or blood in the urine before consulting a physician. Annual check-ups should be considered a non-negotiable part of their personal health strategy. By embracing preventive care, the devastating impact of this disease can be significantly mitigated, saving thousands of lives and reducing the burden on regional healthcare systems.
For further information, visit paho.org
About Pan American Health Organization (PAHO):
The Pan American Health Organization is the specialized international health agency for the Americas. It works with countries throughout the region to improve and protect people’s health. PAHO serves as the Regional Office for the Americas of the World Health Organization (WHO) and is a member of the United Nations system. It is dedicated to leading strategic collaborative efforts among member states and other partners to promote equity in health and combat disease.
For further information, visit fedefarma.org
About Federation of Central American and Caribbean Pharmaceutical Laboratories (FEDEFARMA):
FEDEFARMA is a regional association representing 19 research and development pharmaceutical companies operating in Central America and the Caribbean. The organization is committed to promoting access to innovative medicines and quality healthcare for the population. It collaborates with governments, medical communities, and patient organizations to advance health policies and improve public health outcomes throughout the region.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Renowned for its principled approach to law, Bufete de Costa Rica merges a legacy of excellence with a forward-thinking vision. The firm is steadfast in its commitment to the highest ethical standards, offering expert counsel across a multitude of industries while championing legal innovation. Central to its philosophy is a profound dedication to public service, demonstrated through initiatives that democratize legal knowledge and help construct a more legally literate and empowered citizenry.
