This evening is being sponsored by the Cancer Council of New South Wales and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and promoted by the Rotary Club of Gloucester. Those attending will hear what every Australian man should know about prostate cancer, including what it is, what the risk factors are, treatment options, and the impact this disease has on men and their partners. We will also be launching the Gloucester Prostate Cancer Support Group.

Local urologist, Dr. Santoshi Nagaonkar, of the Mayo Hospital, Taree; Mr. Phil Webster , survivor and facilitator of the Great Lakes Prostate Cancer Support Group; Executives of the Bucketts Way Neighbourhood Group, Gloucester, will speak at the Prostate Cancer Awareness Evening. Following the presentations, there will be an opportunity for members of the audience to ask questions of these specialists. Our local General Practioner, Dr. Gary Lyford will present the speakers, and co-ordinate the question and answer session.

Mr. Andrew Giles, Chief Executive of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia says Australians generally know very little about prostate cancer, even though it is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer *).

“The disturbing facts are that in 2006, an estimated 18,700 new cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in Australia. Tragically, more than 2,900 men lost their life to this disease in 2005.

“If detected in the early stages, prostate cancer is often treatable and curable. However, because there are very few symptoms in these important early stages, diagnosis is often delayed.

“This is why we encourage men, particularly those aged 50-years and over, not to wait until they think that they are experiencing prostate cancer symptoms. Make talking to your doctor about prostate cancer a priority on your check-up checklist. It’s a simple step, and it can save lives,” said Mr. Giles. Light refreshments will be provided at the conclusion of the evening.

If you require further information, please contact: Guy Cassar on 65588140 or cassargw@harboursat.com.au; Bill Radford on 6558 9452 or billpatr@bigpond.net.au or Terry Carson on 0428 680 340 or tcandjillian@bigpond.com