BC Legislature shows support for Prostate Cancer Canada

Minister of Health and MLAs wear signature blue ties and scarves to raise awareness

VICTORIA, May 7, 2012 /CNW/ - Today Prostate Cancer Canada (PCC) hosted their first Legislature Day to promote education and awareness of prostate cancer in British Columbia. During this event, the Honourable Mike de Jong, Minister of Health championed the importance of awareness and talking openly about prostate cancer. In support of prostate cancer awareness day, MLAs wore the signature blue PCC tie or scarf to show their support.

"Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in British Columbia men and claims hundreds of lives every year," said Minister de Jong. "Although, B.C. has some of the best cancer survival rates in the country, more works needs to be done. Prostate Cancer Canada has an important role to play in helping raise awareness and advancing research to help diagnose, treat and manage prostate cancer."

It is estimated that in 2012, about 3,574 British Columbian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and about 541 men will die from it. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer to affect Canadian men, with more than 25,000 men across the country expected to be diagnosed this year.

"Despite an increasing level of awareness about prostate cancer among Canadians, we need to continue to educate men on the importance of early detection," said Donald McInnes, Vice Chair, Board of Directors, Prostate Cancer Canada. "Over 90 per cent of prostate cancer cases are curable if detected and treated in their earliest stages, we encourage men as of age 40 to have the prostate cancer discussion with their doctor. We are grateful to have the attention of the BC government today. The more awareness we create, the more opportunities we have to fund research and support those men and their families living with the disease. We thank all MLAs for helping to raise awareness of prostate cancer by wearing our ties and scarves."

The Prostate Cancer Canada ties and scarf are available for purchase at www.prostatecancer.ca/Store

Prostate Cancer Canada encourages men to take charge of their health and learn about prostate cancer.

Quick Facts

• 1 in 7 Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
• Over 90% of prostate cancer cases are curable if detected and treated in their earliest stages.
• Men with a family history of prostate cancer and those of African or Caribbean descent are at greater risk of developing the disease.
• Prostate cancer has no symptoms in its earliest, most curable stage - so if you are over 40, talk to your doctor about your prostate cancer risk and PSA blood testing
• Prostate Cancer Canada advises men and their doctors take the time to discuss the merits of prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood testing. To review our Early Detection Guidelines, visit http://www.prostatecancer.ca/In-The-News/Foundation-Publications

About Prostate Cancer Canada

Prostate Cancer Canada raises funds for the development of programs related to awareness and public education, advocacy, support of those affected, and research into the prevention, detection, treatment and cure of prostate cancer. For more information visit prostatecancer.ca

Rebecca von Goetz
Executive Vice President
Prostate Cancer Canada
Onsite - 416-917-8650
[email protected]

Caroline De Silva
Argyle Communications
416-898-4361
[email protected]