Prostate Health, Ageing and Society in Japan

“A pioneering study of ageing, masculinity, and health, Prostate Health, Ageing and Society in Japan offers a richly layered analysis of how ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and the male body intersect in everyday life. Castro-Vázquez illuminates the cultural scripts, interpersonal dynamics, and intimate self-negotiations that shape Japanese men’s experiences of benign prostate hyperplasia and prostate cancer. A vital contribution to the sociology of health and illness, this book reframes prostate health as a deeply social, cultural, and embodied matter.” Professor Alex Broom, The University of Sydney, Australia “This work provides an excellent exploration of men and prostate health within the context of Japanese society. It skilfully weaves empirical research and conceptual work together to give a nuanced sociological examination of the intersections between gender, culture, embodiment and health. A book that will generate interest across several disciplines.” Professor Steve Robertson, The University of Sheffield, UK “Prostate Health, Ageing and Society in Japan shows how prostate health is culturally and historically situated. This book interrogates the gendered and racialized aspects of prostate health, as well as the lived realities of aging and incontinence.” Professor Meika Loe, Colgate University, USA; author of Aging Our Way and The Rise of Viagra ""This timely book offers an important socio-cultural analysis of male incontinence and prostate-related health issues within contemporary Japan. Drawing on original data from clinician, patient and media sources, a nuanced portrait of ageing masculinities is provided, informed by pressing concerns such as stigma, discrimination and Westernization. Highly recommended."" Professor Brendan Gough, Leeds Beckett University, UK