Raising awareness for prostate cancer

Oct 27 2011 by Allan Valente, West Lothian Courier

prostate

ANGELA CONSTANCE MSP helped to launch the Prostate Cancer Awareness Campaign at the Centre in Livingston last week.

Members of the West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group joined the MSP for Livingston at the event, where visitors picked up leaflets and information about awareness and the help that is available for those suffering from the disease.

Angela also congratulated the group on the success of their recent campaign to persuade NHS Lothian to provide a biopsy facility for men diagnosed with prostate cancer at the new St John's Hospital Day Bed Unit.

The prostate cancer awareness leaflet explains typical symptoms men should look out for, including frequent visits to the toilet at night and persistent pain in the pelvis, spine, hips, thighs, ribs, or lower back.

Men should also be aware whether or not there is a history of prostate cancer in the family. Anyone worried should see their GP for a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test.

The campaign was given a major boost following a donation of £720 from Stoneyburn Bowling Club.

Prostate cancer affects one in 13 men in Scotland and is the second most common cancer amongst males. While the number of people diagnosed across the country has increased, so have the survival rates, especially where there has been an early diagnosis.

The West Lothian Support Group are a self help group, managed by and for, men with prostate cancer, their families and carers. The shared experiences of diagnosis and treatments and hearing from other patients and carers have helped those involved deal with the hugely difficult time.

Support group meetings are held in the Ability Centre, Carmondean, in Livingston in January, March, May, August and October.

However, help is always on offer outwith meetings and those wishing to can contact Charlie Hogg on 01506 845981 or e-mail charliehogg@blueyonder.co.uk.