Prostate Cancer - Charity Urges Men to Spot the Signs

To mark Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, the Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) is encouraging people to access a free CD-ROM to help men identify the signs and symptoms of the disease.

Liz Atkinson, Head of Care Services, UCF explained, “We are urging men throughout the month of March to be aware of the warning signs and symptoms such as difficulty or pain when passing urine; passing urine more frequently than usual - especially at night; blood in urine or back pain.  Our CD-ROM on prostate cancer will be an invaluable resource – improving early detection and ensuring more effective treatment.  Copies of the CD-ROM are available by calling our helpline – 0800 783 3339 or email infocis@ulstercancer.org ”

“There are around 930 cases of prostate cancer diagnosed every year inNorthern Ireland.  It can be treated successfully if detected early, but it still accounts for an average of 226 deaths a year – that’s 11% of all cancer deaths inNorthern Ireland.

“The causes of prostate cancer are largely unknown but some factors, such as age and family history, are associated with an increased risk of developing the disease.  The majority of cases occur in men over 50 years of age and those who have had a brother or a father diagnosed with prostate cancer at a young age or a family member with breast cancer, have an increased risk of developing the disease.  A diet rich in fat, diary products and red meat may increase your risk of developing prostate cancer.”

UCF provides a range of free services for cancer patients including support groups for men who have been affected by prostate cancer. 

Liz added, “Traditionally men have been reluctant to talk about health issues or seek professional help.  For some it is through fear or embarrassment, others feel guilty about using an under-resourced health service.  However patients in the past have gained a lot from talking to people who are in, or have been in, a similar situation as this can help to reduce feelings of anxiety, fear and isolation and improve quality of life.  The meetings areinformal and there is no pressure to speak about your experiences; you can just come along and listen to what is being said.  There is no commitment to attend each session and everyone is welcome to come as often and for as long as they wish.”

UCF have prostate support groups in L’Derry and Lisburn which meet on a bi-monthly basis.  Support groups are complementary to any ongoing medical treatment and aim to help patients develop a holistic approach to living with cancer.  For further information on the support groups please contact Eileen Creeryon 028 9066 3281 or eileencreery@ulstercancer.org

If you would like to help support men affected by cancer you can take part in UCF’s special fundraiser - Shave or Dye.  Run in partnership with BT, this quirky event challenges men acrossNorthern Irelandto Shave or Dye their hair to raise cash for this year’s men’s health campaign.  You can go for a Number One all over, a red Mohican, orCocothe Clown tufts on the side of your head, whatever takes your fancy! 

It is only £10 to register and all we ask is that you raise a minimum of £50 sponsorship. Once you have registered, you will be sent a pack which will include an iconic Shave or Dye T-shirt, poster, sponsorship details plus information about men’s health and how/where the money raised will be spent.

If you would like to join in the fun or make a donation click on www.ulstercancer.org or follow us on facebook.com/shaveordyeni

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For furtherinformation please contact:

Pauline Wylie, PR & Events Manager, UCF

on 028 9066 3281 / 07810 371118

or

Derval McVerry, PR & Events Officer, UCF

 on 028 9066 3281 / 07812 525531