Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt is urging local men to have their prostate checked and raise awareness about the most commonly diagnosed cancer for men.
“International Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is a timely reminder for men to think about their health and make an appointment for a check up,” Mr Pitt said.
“The risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer increases with age, with most cancers occurring in men aged over fifty.
“Those more at risk are men who have a history of prostate cancer in their immediate family, especially if it’s a brother, rather than a father.
“A simple trip to your GP for a quick check-up is all it takes.”
Mr Pitt said that the Bligh Government was working towards finding out more about the disease through research programs to help improve prostate cancer treatments.
“In partnership with the Commonwealth we’ve established the Australian Prostate Research Centre based at the Princess Alexandra Hospital,” Mr Pitt said.
“Through this centre, a team of clinicians and scientists are working together to improve the way prostate cancer treatments are provided to patients. This research will also provide a better understanding of the disease.
“As well as better screening the Centre is helping to keep Queensland at the forefront of medical research and innovation by working to develop new treatments to tackle prostate cancer.”
Mr Pitt said while the Government was making an effort to improve treatment and research into prostate cancer, early diagnosis was required for the best results.
“Many cases are not life threatening because the cancer may be slow growing. The earlier a person is diagnosed with prostate cancer the earlier doctors can start planning the patients’ care for a better outcome,” Mr Pitt said.
“One in five Queensland men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer by the age of 85, so there’s no better time than now to make a trip to your doctor.”
More information is available at www.healthier.qld.gov.au.
Recent Comments