MP backs campaign to raise awareness of prostate cancer
One in six men have problems with their prostate during lifetime
THE MP for Bosworth has backed a campaign to raise awareness of prostate cancer.
Dr Luke Evans, who was formerly a GP, is supporting National Prostate Cancer Awareness month, which takes place in March, as well as local good cause PROSTaid.
48,000 men are diagnosed each year in the UK with prostate cancer and, as with all cancers, early diagnosis is crucial to ensure the best chance of cure and recovery.
Dr Evans said: “Prostate cancer is one of those awkward diseases to diagnose and treat early because, let’s face it, all too often men are uncomfortable talking to anyone about their waterworks; even if it’s to a doctor.
“As a GP you look for symptoms of: going more frequently, trouble starting to pass urine, dribbling when you finish, weaker stream, problems with getting erections or blood in the water.
“Any of these or you are simply not sure do go and chat with your GP, they will be happy to go through things with you.
“A big part of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is letting chaps know that it’s not just OK to talk with a medical professional if you’re having problems peeing – it’s actually a really good idea.
“I’m delighted to support PROSTaid in their efforts to raise awareness of prostate cancer and to help patients and their families deal with the disease.”
1 in 6 men will have problems with their prostate during their lifetime and while prostate cancer is sometimes found in men in their 40s most diagnoses take place in men 50 and older.
PROSTaid is an independent prostate and prostate cancer charity covering Leicestershire, Rutland and Northamptonshire who provide support to patients and have funded specialist and palliative nurses through their work.
Stuart Berry, a trustee of PROSTaid, said: “If you’re getting up to pee more than once a night, if you have an urgency to pee or still feel you need to urinate after you have finished; or if you have back ache for no apparent reason then get yourself checked out.
“There’s nothing to embarrassed about and might just save your life.”
You can find out more information about prostate cancer and PROSTaid’s work by visiting the charity website or by calling PROSTaid’s helpline on 0844 800 7801. be it