26 September 2024
Victorian Russell Briggs, General Manager, Nursing Program at PCFA and Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse, is urging all men this Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to talk to their mates and their doctors about their risk of the disease.
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with more than 26,000 men told they have the disease each year.
Russell’s remit to raise awareness this month is part of Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA)’s campaign The Long Run.
The Long Run helps love go the distance for all men, with participants walking, running or riding 72km to raise funds for the 72 Australian men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer daily.
“I am taking part in The Long Run, raising funds and awareness as part of the PCFA Prostate Cancer Specialists Nurses Team,” Russell said.
“To cover the 72km distance, I started early and started small, walking a couple of kms each day to reach the goal during September.
“Through my work as a specialist nurse, I am well aware of the improved chances of survival for men if their prostate cancer is diagnosed earlier.
“The best way to achieve earlier diagnosis is to ensure that there is widespread awareness of both prostate cancer and screening recommendations, to identify any disease as early as possible and improve survival outcome for men.
“I would also reassure men that initial screening involves a simple blood test only, and that huge changes have occurred in prostate cancer assessment and management in the last decade.
“Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, it is impacting our fathers, brothers, sons, and mates. If diagnosed early, it is very treatable, and cure is a potential.
“Please take the time this September to know your risk, talk to your doctor about screening, and talk to your mates about them doing the same too.”
Russell said all funds raised for The Long Run would go towards the advocacy and awareness activities that PCFA undertake, in addition to funding valuable clinical research.
“The common challenges I see men face after a prostate cancer diagnosis include a strong desire for information about their disease – to understand their diagnosis and what treatment options are available,” Russell said.
“Many men will suffer significant distress as they are confronted by this potentially life-threatening diagnosis. We need more funds to provide more of this kind of support and resources to all men and families affected.”
Australians can donate to the PCFA Prostate Cancer Support Nurses Long Run team via https://www.thelongrun.org.au/nurses.
PCFA CEO, Anne Savage, called on Australians to advocate, donate, and discuss the disease beyond September.
“During and after Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we are calling on all Australians to inspire community action in the fight against prostate cancer,” Ms Savage said.
“We are tremendously grateful for those who have participated in The Long Run, like Russell and the PCFA Prostate Cancer Support Nurses Team, who are raising vital awareness and funds.
“Together, we can make prostate cancer history.”
Thousands are taking part in The Long Run during September, Australia’s largest online event in support of families facing the disease. Visit www.thelongrun.org.au to donate today.
PCFA’s nursing service is free and available in many health-care centers around Australia. For more information and to find a local support group, call 1800 22 00 99 or go to www.prostate.org.au.
ENDS
Media contacts for further information or interviews:
PCFA – 1800 22 00 99
Katie Clift – katie@maybe.agency |M +351 913 976 202
