Download draft - Northern Ireland Cancer Network

For immediate release
13th March 2012
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 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 [email protected] ”
“There are around 930 cases of prostate cancer diagnosed every year in
Northern 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 in
Northern 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 are informal 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 bimonthly 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
Creery on 028 9066 3281 or [email protected]
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 across Northern Ireland to 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, or Coco the 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
- ENDS For further information 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