For Tauranga resident Mike Lane, a surprise prostate cancer diagnosis nine years ago sparked a mission to get Kiwi men talking about their health – and taking it seriously.

Now aged 74 and cancer-free after surgery, Lane is one of the volunteers behind the Tauranga Prostate Cancer Support Group, which is ramping up efforts this Blue September, the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s awareness month.

“You’ve got to get your warrant of fitness every year – get a PSA test,” Lane said. “One in eight men will be affected by prostate cancer, and for Māori and Pasifika men, it’s one in five. About 30% show no symptoms.”

Lane and fellow volunteer Mike Jolly are helping to run awareness stalls outside Bakers Delight in Gate Pa and Owen’s Place in Mount Maunganui, where the bakery is selling blue-iced buns to support the cause. The group will be there across three weekends: September 13-14, 20-21, and 27-28.

Blue-iced buns at Bakers Delight in Gate Pa, helping to raise awareness of prostate cancer during Blue September. Photo / Brydie Thompson.

“We’re just trying to start conversations,” said Lane. “Buy a bun, grab a brochure, or just come have a chat. It’s not just a man’s issue – it affects families too.”

They’re also heading to Coreys Electrical on Friday, September 12, where around 120 tradies will get a free breakfast and a chance to talk about men’s health.

“I ask guys if they know about prostate cancer – many don’t. They think it’s just for old men. But we tell them: young men can get testicular cancer too. Awareness starts early.”

Lane was diagnosed after a routine blood test showed slightly elevated Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels. His GP advised monitoring, then referred him to a urologist after confirming his prostate was enlarged. A biopsy revealed cancer – despite Lane having no symptoms.

Blue-iced buns at Bakers Delight in Gate Pa, helping to raise awareness of prostate cancer during Blue September. Photo / Brydie Thompson.

“I was mentally blasted,” he said.

“I told my mate on the building site, and he didn’t even know what prostate cancer was. I asked if he went to the doctor – he said only when something went wrong. I thought, ‘You wouldn’t treat your ute like that’.”

Now a passionate advocate, Lane wants to help men and their families talk about health before it’s too late.

The Tauranga Prostate Cancer Support Group meets monthly and takes part in free Prost-FIT classes every Thursday at NextStepNZ gym.

For more information, email: tauranga@prostate.org.nz