Blue September is all about raising everyone’s awareness of prostate cancer, and encouraging and supporting men to take responsibility for their health and get tested. New Zealand has one of the highest rates of prostate cancer in the world.
The statistics
It is the most common cancer in men and the third most common cause of cancer death in men after lung cancer and bowel cancer.
Last year approximately 600 Kiwi men died from prostate cancer and many deaths could have been prevented by early detection and healthy lifestyle choices.
It is the leading cause of cancer death for New Zealand men, and 3000 Kiwi fathers, husbands, sons, and mates are diagnosed with it every year.
1 in 10 New Zealand men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime.
Maori men are 72 per cent more likely to die of prostate cancer once diagnosed than non-Maori men.
What can be done to prevent prostate cancer?
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of NZ encourages all men over 40 to have an annual prostate check. Men over 50 should consider an annual prostate check that includes both a PSA blood test and digital rectal examination (DRE).
Showing your support during Blue September:
Go to www.blueseptember.co.nz to check out our wonderful ambassadors, a full list of events and regular news updates.
Get your blue ribbon from PlaceMakers, The Coffee Club, Corys Electrical, Mad Butcher, Auto Super Shoppes, Farmlands and other participating retailers for a gold coin donation.
Visit a PlaceMakers store and purchase your special edition Swanndri ‘Get checked’ undies, $25 per pair and $10 going to PCFNZ – A great Father’s Day gift but also great on any day.
Every Friday is Blue Friday during Blue September! Encourage your business, organisation, social club, friends and family to celebrate a Blue Friday! Paint your face blue, wear blue and run a fundraiser and awareness event. Register your event at www.blueseptember.org.nz
Like ‘Blue September NZ’ on facebook
Follow Blue September NZ on twitter
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of NZ exists to raise awareness about prostate cancer, promote early detection and provide information and support to men diagnosed with the disease. PCFNZ receives no government funding and relies heavily on volunteer support. PCFNZ actively funds prostate cancer research in New Zealand and runs a free public helpline – 0800 4 PROSTATE (0800 477 678). www.prostate.org.nz
Image / Supplied