BBC Songs of Praise presenter Diane Louise Jordan, is hitting
all the right notes in her quest to make African Caribbean men more
aware of prostate cancer.
Even though African Caribbean men may be aware of prostate
cancer, most men with concerns will not visit their doctor, new
research commissioned for Prostate Cancer Awareness Month has
shown.
The figures, unveiled by The Prostate Cancer Charity*, paint a
deeply concerning picture of how some men are not seeking the help
they need.
Despite over half (51 per cent) of African Caribbean men being
aware of the prevalence of the disease, only one in three (33 per
cent), with concerns about prostate cancer have visited their
doctor to talk about them.
Worryingly only 15 per cent of African Caribbean men are aware
that they are at a higher risk of developing the disease**.
In light of these findings, the Charity is using the awareness
month to highlight the urgent need for African Caribbean men not to
be hit 'out of the blue' by the disease. Throughout March, the
Charity is calling on people to take on a 10,000 Challenge, to help
raise awareness of this issue. In response, Diane will be singing
15 of her favourite hymns - more than 10,000 characters - as she
takes on her very own challenge during the campaign.
Speaking of her involvement, Diane explains: "I was shocked when
I heard how much more at risk African Caribbean men are from
developing prostate cancer, which is why they must go and see their
doctor if they are worried or notice any changes. Although men
might feel embarrassed or uncomfortable, going to see your doctor
as soon as possible is an important step in getting prostate cancer
diagnosed as quickly as possible."
Some men have no symptoms, while others do but don't realise
they are indicative of a possible prostate cancer problem. It is
therefore important for men to find out more about PC and speak to
their GP with any concerns.
Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of The Prostate Cancer Charity,
said: "Prostate cancer does not discriminate and can affect any
man. For African Caribbean men there is an increased risk of
developing the disease, which is why we are encouraging men to talk
through their concerns with their doctor, particularly if they are
experiencing urinary problems.
"Sadly, 10,000 men are lost to prostate cancer every year in the
UK. We know that some men can be reluctant to talk about problems
'down below', but doctors are used to seeing and discussing all
sorts of things, we would encourage men not to feel embarrassed. By
visiting your surgery and talking to a nurse or doctor, you'll be
one step closer to getting the treatment or reassurance you might
need. "
Anyone wanting more information can visit www.prostate-cancer.org.uk
ENDS