This month is Blue September – it’s the month in Aotearoa that’s dedicated to raising awareness of prostate cancer among Kiwi men and raising funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation New Zealand.

Did you know that prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in New Zealand? And it’s the second-leading cause of cancer-related death in Kiwi men?

According to Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ, one in eight Kiwi men will develop prostate cancer at some stage in their lifetime. Some 4000 will be diagnosed this year, and around 42,000 are living with the disease in New Zealand.

Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ is the leading men’s cancer charity, which aims to significantly reduce and ultimately end suffering and death from prostate cancer by providing support and education, funding research and advocating to reduce the impacts of the disease. 

It’s hoped that fundraising events up and down the country will raise more than $1 million of much-needed funds during September, with proceeds going towards essential wrap-around support services the charity provides for men and their whānau living with prostate cancer.   

Coinciding with Blue September, the Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ has launched a new awareness van, starting an ambitious new programme of education and outreach for the charity, enabling them to travel across Aotearoa targeting places where men and their families gather such as health expos, fairs and workplaces.

Manned by a health professional, the van will provide vital information and education about prostate cancer to empower men and their whānau to seek early diagnosis to ensure the best outcome, which is made significantly more likely if the disease is detected before it causes symptoms.

Cambridge Prostate Cancer Support Group member Richard Brand, PCFNZ national support & education manager Raewyn Paviour and events assistant Mel Ion with Cambridge’s prostate group coordinator Ron Greenwood with the education van in action at Fieldays. Photo: supplied.

Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ chief executive Peter Dickens says the aim is to encourage the older generation to get their sons – particularly those aged in their 40s and 50s to talk to a health professional – especially if there is a family history of prostate cancer.

“The social impact of this disease is immeasurable and we’re in danger of losing a generation of men to prostate cancer without a coordinated national approach.”

“A lot of men actively avoid visiting their GP, which can be a crucial step in getting an early diagnosis of prostate cancer,” says Peter.
“So, we decided that it’s time to get out to where men are and have those conversations, provide information and education with hopes of early detection to save the lives of our sons, fathers, and mates. We’re incredibly grateful to Ryman Healthcare for believing in the importance of this work and supporting us to make it possible.”

Do Something Blue this September!

So what can you do to help? Do something blue to help a mate through this September! Find out more, or register your own Blue Do at: www.blueseptember.org.nz

Hellers is getting behind Blue September this year by providing free sausage packs for groups and individuals that register a Blue Do BBQ, to maximise the funds raised for Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ.

This is because the Foundation wants Kiwi men to start talking about their health and taking positive action – because if it’s caught early, prostate cancer can be very treatable and so many more options are available if it’s detected before symptoms arise. 

And a Blue Do will also raise funds for those who already battling prostate cancer. So go on – visit: www.blueseptember.org.nz