Brian's message to South West blokes

Cancer Council WA is using Prostate Cancer Awareness Month this September to issue a timely reminder to men in the South West to visit their local doctor, Aboriginal health worker or clinic nurse if they experience issues with peeing.

A recent study showed 82 per cent of regional people over 40 were aware that problems with peeing could be related to cancer.

South West Regional Education Officer, Julie Rose, said while the findings from the latest ‘Find Cancer Early’ Interim Evaluation Results were a good sign, ongoing education was needed.

“Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Western Australian men, but currently there is not a suitable test that can be used to screen the male population for it, so knowing the symptoms and taking action is really important,” Ms Rose said.

“Common symptoms of prostate cancer include waking a lot at night to pee, a sudden or urgent need to pee, problems starting or stopping peeing, needing to pee more often, a slow or weak flow when peeing, dribbling at the end of peeing or losing weight without trying.

“These symptoms can be due to other reasons, but if you have had any of these for more than four weeks, or you’ve noticed blood in your pee or semen, even just once, tell your doctor, clinic nurse or Aboriginal health worker as soon as possible.

“It doesn’t mean you’ve got prostate cancer – often it turns out to be something far less serious and your doctor may be able to help reduce the annoying symptoms.”

Prostate cancer champion Brian Fisher from Capel knows all too well how important it is for men to listen to their bodies.

“If you notice anything unusual, be sure to get it checked,” Brian said.

“If you have a symptom, don’t mess around and be the tough Aussie guy.”

“None of this ‘I’ll be right’ nonsense. If you have a symptom, get to a doctor.”

Julie said in WA, the risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer by age 75 years was one in eight for men.

“In 2019, there were 2,372 new cases of prostate cancer recorded and 258 deaths,” she said.

“In the South West region in 2019, 161 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer, and 22 deaths.

“When cancer is found at an earlier stage, there is a better chance of successful treatment, so that we can be around for longer for family and friends.”

For more information about prostate cancer symptoms, visit www.findcancerearly.com.au or call Cancer Council’s information and support line on 13 11 20.