Prostate Cancer Survivor Preaches Testing

Convincing men to test for prostate cancer is an ongoing challenge. A recent article in the South Florida Times provides a great example. A 46 year old man recently diagnosed with prostate cancer organized a free seminar attended by 80 men. Of the 80, only 33 took a blood test (41%) and only 27 (34%) agreed to a digital rectal exam. We guys are a macho bunch, but there is a very real danger here. The 10-year survival rate for treatment prior to metastasis is 97%; for post-metatastic treatment the 10-year survival rate is only 17%. If we survivors can gently remind our colleagues about the need for testing and tracking the annual change - if any, we can make some significant inroads into late diagnoses. The Prostate Cancer Awareness Project is sending a rider across the US by bicycle in 2010 to raise funds for awareness events. Visit http://www.TourdeUSA.org and join the team.