To Join PC-PEP South Africa:
🌐 Simply visit www.pcpep.org and enter your contact information on the Home page. That’s all you need to do — our PC-PEP International Project Coordinator will reach out and guide you through enrolment.
Prostate Cancer – Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP)
Now Open in South Africa!
PC-PEP South African enrolment now open! Visit: pcpep.org to inquire information or to enrol in the program for free.
The Prostate Cancer – Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) is a free, six-month, home-based mind–body program developed in Canada to improve the physical and mental health and quality of life of people diagnosed with prostate cancer.
We are proud to announce the launch of PC-PEP in South Africa in 2025, offered in partnership with:
- University of the Witwatersrand
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
- Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa
This program is available to all men in South Africa who speak English, have internet access, and a computer.
South Africa Site Leads
Dr. Duvern Ramiah, MBBCh, MBA, FCRadOnc(SA)
Head of Radiation Oncology Division, University of the Witwatersrand, Site Principal Investigator
Dr. Ramiah is a radiation oncologist and leader in advancing oncology care for underserved populations. As Head of Radiation Oncology at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, he introduced the prostate brachytherapy program and continues to champion equitable access to world-class cancer treatment.
Prof. Shingai Mutambirwa, MB ChB, M Med, FCS
Head of Urology, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Prof. Mutambirwa is a founding member of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa and an advocate for men’s health. He has pioneered new surgical techniques and led nationwide prostate cancer awareness campaigns, shaping urology care across Southern Africa.
Collaborators
Dr. Conray Moolman, MBChB (UFS), FCUROL (SA), MMED (UCT)
Dr. Conray Moolman is a South African urological surgeon with a special interest in laparoscopic and robotic procedures, with a focus on kidney and prostate cancer. He holds an MBChB from the University of the Free State and completed his urology training (FC Urol) and Master’s degree (MMed) at the University of Cape Town. His research on traumatic kidney injuries has been published in leading medical journals. Dr. Moolman practices privately at Cape Urology in Cape Town Southern Suburbs and serves as a proctor for robotic urological surgery, contributing to the advancement of minimally invasive techniques in the field. We are delighted to share that Dr. Conray Moolman is recommending PC-PEP to his patients and joining forces with our South African team to expand patient recruitment and access to the program.
About the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa is a leading non-profit organisation dedicated to reducing the impact of prostate cancer on South African men and their families. Founded as a non-profit company in 2005 and registered as an NPO in 2018, the Foundation brings together medical specialists, patients, volunteers, and corporate partners to tackle prostate cancer from every angle.
Here are some of the key things they do:
- Develop national diagnostic and screening guidelines for prostate cancer in South Africa.
- Provide a helpline and support services for men diagnosed with prostate cancer, their families and carers.
- Raise awareness and educate men about risk factors, early detection (for example via PSA testing) and treatment options.
- Engage the medical community via a Medical & Scientific Advisory Board, integrate patient perspectives via the Patient Affairs Board, and involve corporate and strategic partners to scale impact.
- Publish up-to-date information, run events, support research/clinical trials and keep men informed of advances in prostate cancer care.
Why it matters
In South Africa, prostate cancer is a major health concern. The Foundation’s work is vital in ensuring men are informed, supported and empowered. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, and organisations like PCFSA help make that possible.
Our Collaboration
We are thrilled to partner with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa. Their leadership, expertise and outreach align perfectly with our mission to support men’s health. Through this collaboration we:
- Amplify awareness of men’s prostate health.
- Facilitate access to their helpline and support services.
- Promote their latest publications and resources (see below).
- Encourage men to join, engage and become part of the movement toward early detection and better outcomes.
Join the Movement
Men of South Africa — this is for you. If you’re over 40 (or even younger if you have risk factors), get screened. Talk to your doctor about prostate health. Join the Foundation’s support services and helpline. Spread the word among your friends, colleagues, family.
By becoming part of the PCFSA network you:
- Gain access to trusted information and support.
- Join a community of men looking out for each other.
- Help raise awareness so that other men don’t delay getting checked.
- Transform from a passive observer into an active participant in prostate health.
Let’s stand together. Get checked. Stay informed. Take action.
Latest Release
📢 Issue 3 2025 of “Urology, Uro-oncology and Sexology Update” is now available — published by PCFSA. Visit their website to view the full magazine.
This issue includes the latest clinical research, interviews, awareness campaigns and more — a great resource for both healthcare professionals and informed patients/families.
Thank you for helping spread the word about this life-changing work. Together with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa, we can encourage men to act, support one another, and reduce the burden of prostate cancer across the country.
About PC-PEP
PC-PEP is a structured six-month program delivered through daily emails and videos. It offers practical, evidence-based strategies to help men thrive after a prostate cancer diagnosis.
Program Highlights
- Exercise: Aerobic and strength training with guided videos and free elastic bands.
- Pelvic Floor Training: To improve urinary control and sexual function.
- Stress Reduction: Includes a free heart-rate coherence biofeedback device.
- Nutrition: Weekly cooking videos and expert dietary advice.
- Intimacy & Connection: Tools to support relationships and sexuality.
- Social Support:
- Optional buddy/mentor pairing.
- Monthly Zoom videoconferences with program leads and fellow participants.
- Access to local support resources in South Africa.
How to Enrol
You may qualify if:
- You have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
- You can access daily emails and YouTube videos.
- You are willing to complete 4 online surveys over 2 years.
To Join PC-PEP South Africa:
🌐 Simply visit www.pcpep.org and enter your contact information on the Home page. That’s all you need to do — our PC-PEP International Project Coordinator will reach out and guide you through enrollment.
📧 Email: pep@nshealth.ca – for inquiries or to register.
📞 International Coordinator, Cody MacDonald’s Phone number: +1 902 473-7727
For South Africa site enquiries, please contact your treating physician or one of the partner universities above.
| INTERNATIONAL COORDINATOR: Mr. Cody MacDonald pep@nshealth.ca +1 902 473-7727 | PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR Dr. Gabriela Ilie Gabriela.Ilie@dal.ca |
International Leadership
- Dr. Gabriela Ilie, PhD – PC-PEP Program Co-Creator, International Scientific Lead
- Dr. Rob Rutledge, MD, FRCPC – PC-PEP Program Co-Creator, International Clinical Lead
- Mr. Cody MacDonald, MSc – PC-PEP International Project Lead Coordinator
Together with South African site leads, they ensure PC-PEP is delivered to the highest standard worldwide.
Join Us Today
South Africa enrolment is open now. To register for this FREE program go to pcpep.org and enter your contact information on the enrolment form. Our PCPEP team will proceed to enrolling you in the program from there.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with prostate cancer (any stage and any time (pre-during or post treatment), we invite you to take part in this life-changing program.
International Leadership
Dr. Gabriela Ilie, PhD, PC-PEP Program Co-Creator and International PC-PEP Scientific Lead. Contact: Gabriela.Ilie@dal.ca | LinkedIn: Gabriela Ilie, PhD | X: @GabrielaIDr
Dr. Gabriela Ilie is a Dalhousie University Endowed Scientist in Prostate Cancer Quality of Life and an Associate Professor in the Departments of Community Health and Epidemiology, Urology, Radiation Oncology, Psychology, and Neuroscience at Dalhousie University. Dr. Ilie is also an Affiliated Scientist with the Nova Scotia Health Authority and Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre, as well as a Scientist with the Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute. Dr. Ilie has led the development of the Prostate Cancer-Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP), working closely with scientific and clinical teams to create this transformative initiative. With over 100 peer-reviewed publications, her research focuses on improving the quality of life for prostate cancer patients and advancing patient-centered care. Gabriela is the recipient of the 2024 Public Impact Award, sponsored by Research Nova Scotia, Canada, and Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology 2025 Innovation Award recognizing her exceptional contributions to research, cancer survivorship and its impact on society. Dalhousie University profile for Dr. Ilie, www.pcpep.org
Dr. Rob Rutledge, MD, FRCPC, PC-PEP Program Co-Creator and International PC-PEP Clinical Lead. Contact: Dalhousie University Page | LinkedIn: Dr. Rob Rutledge
Dr. Rob Rutledge, co-creator of the Prostate Cancer-Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) and International Clinical Lead for the Program, is a highly experienced Radiation Oncologist with over 28 years of clinical practice at the Nova Scotia Health Authority and Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Specializing in the treatment of Prostate, Breast, and Pediatric cancers, Dr. Rutledge has dedicated his career to advancing patient care and improving outcomes. Dr. Rutledge’s academic journey includes a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Computer Science, a Certificate in Community Health and Clinical Epidemiology, and a Doctor of Medicine degree, all from the University of Toronto. His medical training comprises a Comprehensive Internship in Medicine at Queen’s University, Kingston, and a Radiation Oncology Residency Program at the University of Ottawa. In addition to his clinical and academic work, Dr. Rutledge has an extensive track record of patient engagement and advocacy. He has delivered over 300 public talks to cancer patients and patient organizations worldwide, sharing his knowledge and inspiring hope. He also led a cancer charity for 15 years, further demonstrating his commitment to empowering patients and supporting their journey. Dr. Rutledge began collaborating with Dr. Gabriela Ilie and her team in 2017, contributing his clinical expertise to the development and refinement of the PC-PEP program. This partnership highlights his passion for providing evidence-based tools that empower patients to take control of their health and enhance their quality of life. Awarded the Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology 2025 Innovation Award for her groundbreaking work in prostate cancer quality of life research. Dalhousie University profile for Dr. Rutledge, pcpep.org.
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Cody MacDonald, MSc, International Project Lead Coordinator in the Dalhousie University’s Soillse Prostate Cancer Quality of Life Research Lab
- PC-PEP International Project Coordinator.
- MSc student in Community Health and Epidemiology at Dalhousie University.
- Passionate advocate for improving quality of life for prostate cancer patients.
Contact: PEP@NSHealth.ca | LinkedIn: Cody MacDonald
Cody is PC-PEP’s International Project Lead Coordinator in the Dalhousie University’s Soillse Prostate Cancer Quality of Life Research Lab. Cody serves as the International Project Lead Coordinator for PC-PEP within the DMRF Soillse Prostate Cancer Quality of Life Research Laboratory. His journey with the Soillse Lab began in the summer of 2018 as a student volunteer. From May to August 2019, he held a Research Assistant Practicum position, later transitioning to the role of Research Coordinator within the lab. A graduate of Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Sciences, Cody developed a keen interest in epidemiology and community health research during his studies. Beyond his academic pursuits, he has been actively involved with a non-profit mental health charity for several years, driven by a deep passion for improving quality of life. Originally from Pictou County, Nova Scotia, Cody is enthusiastic about coordinating impactful research projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life for prostate cancer patients in the Maritimes and beyond. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor activities, including cycling through the city, hiking along the coast, and traveling.Connect with Cody on LinkedIn. LinkedIn Profile, pcpep.org
Monthly Video Conferences
When: First Tuesday of every month at 17:00 PM SAST.
What: A chance to connect with program leads, fellow participants, and partners. Special breakout rooms are available for partners.
Watch our Documentary, Empower here
ESAU 2025 – Expertise in South African Urology, Pretoria, South Africa
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