MINISTER LAUNCHES WEBSITE FOR PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP ACT REGION

ACT Minister for Health, Katy Gallagher, today marked Prostate Cancer Awareness Month by launching a new website for the ACT local support group.

The Minister also used the occasion to thank the Prostate Cancer Support Group ACT Region for their support for four nurses with their post-graduate study through La Trobe University. The further education has enhanced the nurses' skills and knowledge specifically in prostate cancer care.

"September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and is an opportunity to raise the profile of prostate cancer," Ms Gallagher said.

"It is also the perfect time to promote a healthy lifestyle and to encourage men to visit their GP for regular check-ups. Early detection and treatment of prostate cancer can dramatically increase the survival rate," she said.

"Data from the Australian Institution of Health and Welfare suggests that prostate cancer is the second greatest cause of cancer deaths in men with almost 20,000 men expected to be diagnosed with the cancer in 2010. Almost 3,000 men will die as a direct result of prostate cancer during the same period. That's why awareness and early detection is so important.

"Support during cancer treatment of any kind is invaluable and should be encouraged. Through its website, the Prostate Cancer Support Group is able to provide specific information and support for this type of cancer," Ms Gallagher said.

"The website provides a range of information for those affected by prostate cancer and those wanting to know more about the disease, as well as details of the Group's regular monthly meetings.

"The services provided by the Prostate Cancer Support Group are extremely valuable and I thank the Group for their efforts," Ms Gallagher said.

The new website can be found at http://prostate-cancer-support-act.net/

Media Contact:

Kathryn Roberts 6205 0242 0402 399 907 kathryn.roberts@act.gov.au