If you haven’t been directly affected by prostate cancer you’re bound to know someone who has.

One in eight Kiwi men – fathers, brothers, husbands, sons or best mates – will develop cancer in their lifetime.

About 4000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, and it is the most common cancer for men in New Zealand, apart from skin cancers.

People are encouraged to get behind Blue September by creating their own fundraiser – it could be an event, a challenge for yourself, a workplace quiz, get creative!

Funds raised will help the Prostate Cancer Foundation provide the support services that they and their families need, advocate for improved standards of care and invest in research that will not only save their lives but help them live their best life beyond diagnosis.

Every dollar raised during Blue September makes this possible – every effort, every activity, every dollar, every cent, however small. Every little makes a lot.

To create a fundraiser, visit: blueseptember.org.nz

What is prostate cancer?

The prostate is the small gland that sits below the bladder and is part of the male reproductive system.

Like the rest of the body, the prostate is made of tiny “building blocks” called cells.

Prostate cancer is the abnormal growth of these cells into a lump or tumour.

Prostate cancer symptoms

The symptoms of prostate cancer are often hard to pick out and confused with other non-cancerous conditions.

The symptoms of prostate cancer may include:

-difficulty peeing.

-peeing more often, especially at night.

-pain when peeing.

-blood in pee or semen.

Often there are no signs of early-stage prostate cancer.

Having these symptoms does not mean you have prostate cancer, but it is important to have any changes checked by your doctor.

Tips for talking to your doctor

- make a list of what you are feeling and how often it happens, including as much detail as possible.

-think about your family/whānau history of cancer and tell your doctor.

- go back to your doctor if you don’t feel better, even if tests show you don’t have a problem - you can ask for a second opinion if you want one.

- take a family/whānau member or friend with you to the appointment for support.

What causes prostate cancer?

Like many types of cancer, we don’t always know why people get prostate cancer, but some things increase your risk.

These risk factors include:

- getting older.

- if your father or brother has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Find more resources on prostate cancer at: blueseptember.org.nz