“Men need to be more open about health challenges” – Charly Boy reveals

• Charly Boy, Nigerian entertainer and activist Charles Oputa, is using his personal experience of surviving prostate cancer to raise awareness about men’s health and mental well-being.

• In an interview with Saturday Beats, he emphasized the significance of openness in addressing health issues.

Nigerian entertainer and activist Charles Oputa, widely recognized as Charly Boy, has disclosed that he is leveraging his personal battle with prostate cancer to promote awareness regarding men’s health and mental wellness.

In a conversation with Saturday Beats, he highlighted the necessity of transparency when confronting health issues.

“I survived prostate cancer, and it is only because of my openness. I am also trying to encourage Nigerian men to be more open about the challenges they face, especially concerning mental health and prostate issues. These problems are killing a lot of men,” he stated.

Discussing his latest initiative, the Charly Boy Foundation, he articulated his goal of dismantling the stigma associated with men showing vulnerability. Charly Boy stated, “We’ve been brainwashed to think that men don’t cry, but I cry if something touches my soul. I don’t care whether I’m in front of a million women, or if you think my crying makes me weak. I know I’m not weak, so I will cry. If something bothers me, I must get it out.”

He emphasized the critical role of communication, especially with trusted friends and family, in alleviating the weight of secrecy. Reflecting on the foundation’s establishment, he noted, “My experience with prostate cancer inspired me to set it up. I would have been a goner if I had acted like others I know. That’s why I’m committed to raising awareness, showing men that openness is better than pretending to be strong.”

Charly Boy also shared insights from his treatment experience, stressing the importance of early detection.

“I was treated in Nigeria by a doctor committed to Corporate Social Responsibility. The operation took place at Reddington Hospital.”