Each year around 55,000 men receive the devastating news that they have prostate cancer. It’s now the most common cancer in men, accounting for over 25% of all cancer types combined.
Sadly, incidence rates are increasing – up 53% since the early 1990s. And this increase is projected to keep growing over the first half of this century.
Despite no national screening process, prostate cancer survival rates have tripled in the last 50 years in the UK. This may be because of greater PSA testing, which can result in earlier diagnosis. But peer support plays a key part too. Talking to someone with lived experience can encourage men who may be concerned because they have symptoms, or because of their age (34% of new cases are in men over 75 years old), to talk to their doctor.
Connecting with people who have been on or are going through their own prostate cancer journey, can provide an invaluable network of support. Any topics too embarrassing, upsetting or shameful, to discuss with loved ones can be safely shared at a support group like the Warminster Prostate Chat Cafe.
The Chat Cafe was set up by people already affected by prostate cancer, who wanted others to have a better experience. Open every second and fourth Monday it’s a free, drop in therapeutic chat cafe that welcomes everyone including family and friends of those affected. It aims simply to raise awareness of the disease, encourage understanding of symptoms, and provide a safe space for men affected by prostate cancer to share their experiences.
If you are personally concerned about prostate cancer, or worried for a male friend or relative, then please do come along to the chat cafe and start a conversation that ultimately could have life enhancing benefits for you and others.
Source for material – Cancer Research UK and Tackle Prostate Cancer
