01 August 2023
The nation’s peak body for prostate cancer awareness is calling on Australian men and women to become ‘heroes to zero’, by registering to raise awareness and funds to help reduce deaths from the disease during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in September.
More than 3,500 Australian men die from prostate cancer each year, which accounts for more hospitalisations than any other type of cancer and costs the health system over $1.35 billion to treat.
In response, Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) has launched The Long Run, an online event to help achieve the goal of zero deaths in our lifetime.
Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, Anne Savage, said community action was key to early detection and survival.
“With a rate of Stage 1 detection at 36 percent, and more than 3,500 deaths per year, awareness is key to saving lives.
“We are calling on all Australians to take action and sign up now for our online event The Long Run this September, to help get the message out about early detection and support.
“With a concentrated focus on research, awareness, and support, we know we can achieve our ultimate goal of zero deaths in our lifetime.
“People can register to run, walk or ride 72km during the month in solidarity with men, recognizing that men impacted by prostate cancer have a 70 percent higher risk of suicide death and 72 percent of men affected by mental health concerns related to their disease will not access the support they need.
“For those who are recovering from surgery or treatment, we also have a 1k a day ‘do it your way’ option, to ensure the event is suitable for people of all ages and abilities.”
Surveys have found that awareness of prostate cancer compared to other major forms of cancer is low in Australia.
“Very few Australians know what the prostate is and many are unaware of the recommendations for early detection of the disease,” Ms Savage said.
“And yet despite this, the disease remains Australia’s most common cancer, with one man diagnosed every 22 minutes.
“Community action during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month will provide a big boost for survival, helping us achieve the vision of zero deaths from the disease.”
Several thousand eager runners, walkers and cyclists are expected to join The Long Run this September, with over 200 participants already registered and over $20,000 raised – with a total goal of $1 million for research, support services and awareness.
Go to www.thelongrun.org.au to register.
ENDS
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