Prostate Cancer Awareness, the biggest gender specific cancer killer of Men.
The Red Sock campaign was founded in 2007 and is run by patients and volunteers.
It is within the remit of Human Rights for an individual to know that he has cancer and the risks associated with the disease.
A simple blood test for prostate problems (called the PSA test) is available at all GP surgeries for ALL men from 50 years of age or younger if they are in the HIGH risk group (black African/Caribbean men, men with a family history of prostate cancer (N.I.C.E guidelines). The PSA test is helpful along with a rectal examination (DRE) to indicate problems in the prostate gland. The PSA can then be monitored by the GP as and when necessary, the man would then only be referred to a Specialist unit for further tests when deemed necessary from a series of PSA test (the rate at which the PSA score changes is a key element in deciding if a patient needs further tests), the current trigger for treatment is a man who presents with a DRE examination that indicates some hardening or lumpiness and a PSA of upto 10 resulting in a biopsy that revels a Gleason score of 6. It is suggested that the PSA level is too low as a trigger for treatment and for some men it should be upto 20 and a Gleason score of 6 it is claimed that this could avoid much of the over treatment that exists currently. An early diagnosis and appropriate timely intervention can effect survival and even cure in most cases ,thus saving the lives of many men reckoned to be in excess of 11,000 a year, who currently perish due to prostate cancer in the UK.
The Red Sock Aims:- “RESEARCH is the only route to DEFEAT Prostate Cancer”
To “RAISE THE AWARENESS” of Prostate Cancer in Wales. “EVERY MAN should have access to the treatment that is best for his cancer and his lifestyle.” Leaflets and booklets about Prostate Cancer need to be more readily available across Wales.
To provide A LINK to those seeking where to get ADVICE & GUIDANCE on Prostate Cancer as well as information on events and how to become involved.
The number of men needing care for Prostate Cancer is certain to rise in the next few years as a result of an ageing population.
To improve and provide BETTER FACILITIES, information and meeting places for men and their families to discuss any queries they may have regarding their symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and lifestyle.
The PSA blood test should be at least offered as part of an annual health check for ALL men, it would then be the mans OWN choice as to whether he decides to have the health check offered to him.
DISCLAIMER Nothing on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, it is intended for informational purposes.
