The Philippine Embassy in Vientiane, Laos conducted a Seminar on Men’s Health Issues on 27 June 2019 at the Philippine Embassy, in observance of International Men’s Health, and as part of Post’s ongoing health and wellness program. The Seminar was facilitated by Dr. NatheeLorvangchay, General Practitioner at the Alliance International Medical Center in Vientiane, and was attended by 32 members of the Filipino Community.

Dr. Nathee discussed prostate cancer, the leading type of cancer affecting men, and testicular cancer. During his presentation, Dr. Nathee provided signs and symptoms of prostate and testicular cancers, as well as various ways to screen for these types of cancer. He emphasized that there is no known cause of prostate and testicular cancers, but there are patterns in terms of age and race.

In addition, Dr. Nathee discussed treatment procedures, such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy (for Stage 4 cancer or in the event that the cancer has spread to other organs), as well as side effects of treatment. He added that prostate cancer poses a high risk of mortality since men do not often visit their doctor for screening. He encouraged the male audience to visit their doctor for check-ups, as well as to conduct self-exams for testicular cancer.

At the conclusion of the event, the Embassy issued reminders on its consular and Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN) services, and encouraged the Filipinos to approach the Embassy for any concerns that may affect the Filipinos in Laos .END