The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) has launched a new program to help raise prostate cancer awareness in Geelong and the region.
Life Force will see trained community speakers like Geelong prostate cancer survivors Graham Rees and Julian Sweeney talk to businesses and organisations about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.
PCFA chief executive Anne Savage said prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in Australia and the most common among this country’s men.
“The Life Force program will help us reduce the burden of prostate cancer for all Australians,” she said.
“Our team of dedicated and passionate community speakers are activating and motivating workplaces and community groups to play their part in helping to make prostate cancer history.
“There has never been a more important time to prioritise health and wellbeing in the workplace and in the community.”
Mr Sweeney said prostate cancer was easier to treat and beat when detected early, with survival rates of close to 100 per cent for stage one diagnoses.
“Public awareness of prostate cancer saves lives through early detection,” he said.
“I am one of the men diagnosed every 22 minutes in Australia and my own experience with the disease has motivated me to speak out about men’s health.”
Mr Rees said he would participate in the program alongside other volunteers like Mr Sweeney from across the country.
“I encourage you to reach out and book in a presentation today as you could help save another life,” he said.
More than 24,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, with one in five diagnosed by age 85.
For more prostate cancer information or to be involved with the Life Force program, visit www.pcfa.org.au or call 1800 22 00 99.
