Canberra landmarks including the National Carillon, Questacon, and Old Parliament House are turning blue this week to raise awareness of prostate cancer, as local advocates urge men to speak to their GPs about testing.
The Prostate Cancer Support Group – ACT Region is marking Prostate Cancer Awareness Month throughout September.
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia: every year, around 29,000 men are diagnosed each year, or 79 new cases every single day – and nearly 4,000 Australian men die every year from it.
“One in five men are likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime,” the Group’s president, Greg McRoberts, said. “That’s one in five dads, brothers, husbands, nephews, and mates.
“Our goal this September is to make sure more people in our community understand the importance of early detection and support.”
At the moment, only 36 per cent of men are diagnosed with prostate cancer at Stage 1 when the disease is easiest to treat, Mr McGregor said.
New clinical guidelines for early detection of prostate cancer, released in August, recommend that men aged 50 to 69 have a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test every two years. Men at higher risk may be advised to begin two-yearly testing from the age of 45.
“A PSA is the first line of defence against prostate cancer and can help save your life,” Mr McGregor said.
The National Carillon, John Gorton Building, Treasury Building, Old Parliament House and Questacon turned blue today.
Malcolm Fraser Bridge, light rail stops, and the City fountain will also be illuminated tomorrow.
Canberrans can take part in PCFA’s national fundraising challenge, the Long Run, by running, walking or riding 72 km during September.
The volunteer-run Group meets at 7 pm on the third Wednesday of each month at the Pearce Community Centre, 3 Collett Place. It also holds monthly coffee mornings on the second Tuesday of each month.
For more information, visit pcsg-act.org.au or call 1300 451 500.
“Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or are supporting someone who has, you’re not alone,” Mr McRoberts said. “Our group is here to help.”
