A charity dedicated to making healthcare more accessible to men has highlighted high blood pressure and prostate cancer in the local population.

DailyMale said in its recently released annual report that 290 men took advantage of the charity’s 11 free clinics over the course of 2024.

The charity, founded by doctors Jonathan Makanjuola and Jade Robinson in 2023, was created to help address prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease in Bermuda by offering free testing and referrals for uninsured and underinsured men.

The report noted that of those who agreed to provide their racial background, 95 per cent of clinic visitors described themselves as Black.

“Though Bermuda's healthcare system is generally good, lower-income Black families often struggle with access to quality care due to challenges like limited transportation, lack of insurance and geographic barriers,” the report said.

“Those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds also experience poorer health outcomes because of limited healthcare access, lower health literacy and higher rates of smoking, alcohol use and other risk behaviours.”

The report writer said low-income communities could face “significant barriers” in accessing healthcare.

“Hypertension, diabetes and obesity, major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, are more common in lower-income and Black Bermudian communities,” the report said.

“Studies show that Black Bermudians experience higher rates of hypertension, a key factor in heart disease, influenced by both genetic factors and socio-economic disparities, as well as lifestyle factors like diet and exercise.”

Of those tested, 58 per cent were found to have higher blood pressures, while 17 per cent were found to have high prostate-specific antigen levels, indicating a risk of prostate cancer.

The report noted that, as in other parts of the world, Black men in Bermuda have a higher risk of prostate cancer than other groups, with a tendency towards more aggressive forms of the disease.

“This disparity is seen across many African diaspora populations globally,” the report said.

“In Bermuda, many men, especially from marginalised communities, are diagnosed with prostate cancer at later stages.

“This is often due to a lack of awareness or reluctance to seek care, which is more common in lower-income or disadvantaged communities.

“Cultural stigma around prostate health and screening also plays a role, with many men, especially older ones, avoiding check-ups due to fears, taboos or not understanding the importance of early detection.”

The charity said that to improve access to healthcare and remain cost effective, DailyMale had started raising funds to buy a screening van, which could provide point-of-care testing to underserved members of the community.

“As we are centred around collaboration, our van can be utilised by other local charities and health organisations for other medical screening activities,” the report added.