One in five men in East Gippsland are likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, with increasing numbers of men in the community impacted each year.
In an effort to help save lives, the East Gippsland Prostate Cancer Support Group is speaking out and calling on men in the region to use the opportunity to get checked.
Their call is supported by Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and coincides with Men’s Health Week this week (June 9-15).
“Men’s Health Week is all about improving men’s health, so we are encouraging men to take action by booking an appointment with their GP to talk about their prostate cancer risks and have a PSA test,” Rob Petchell said.
“A simple PSA blood test is the first-line defence in the early detection of prostate cancer.”
On average 252 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year in Gippsland with one in five men at risk of developing the disease in their lifetime.
“Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, yet there is a lack of understanding about the disease in the community,” Rob said.
“It’s a disease that can turn men’s lives upside down, which is why we want to encourage men to get checked early. If they are diagnosed, we just may be able to help.”
East Gippsland Prostate Cancer Support Groups which are affiliated with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), meet bi-monthly in Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance.
“If you’ve been impacted by prostate cancer – we encourage you to join us for support, information and a like-minded community,” Rob said.
“Joint action has never been more important – together we can make a difference.”
