![Survivor, Thulani Sibisi, to run Soweto Marathon for CANSA...]()
Survivor, Thulani Sibisi, to run Soweto Marathon for CANSA…
Afrikaanse Persvrystelling…
21 October 2014 – CANSA is placing the spotlight on Prostate and Testicular Cancer this November during its Men’s Health Awareness Campaign. The lifetime risk for Prostate Cancer in men in South Africa is one in 26 and one in 1 959 for testicular cancer, which is common in young men between the ages of 15 and 39, although it can occur at any age.
Survivor Thulani Educating his Community
Prostate Cancer Survivor, Thulani Sibisi, is joining the fight against cancer, by taking education to his community.
“We have to start something to educate people,” says Sibisi. As a former Two Oceans Marathon winner, he prided himself in being fit and healthy, but when he started experiencing difficulty in urinating, along with a burning sensation in 2010, he started to feel concerned.
“I went to my family doctor and he told me not to be concerned, so I tried to ignore my symptoms. In 2012 I collapsed, and then only were my symptoms taken more seriously. After some tests, I was told I had stage three prostate cancer,” tells Sibisi.
As a cancer Survivor in remission, Sibisi appeals to all men to not delay being tested for cancers such as prostate and testicular cancer. “If you are experiencing any worrying symptoms, rather be safe and go to your doctor for screening,” concludes Sibisi.
Reduce the Cancer Risk
CANSA encourages men to invest in their health and reduce their cancer risk through regular self-examinations, getting screened, as well as leading a balanced lifestyle.
Testicular Cancer
Most testicular cancers can be detected early – a lump or swelling may be the first sign that someone should consult a medical practitioner. It’s important for young men to start testicular self-examinations soon after puberty. Find more info regarding how to do testicular self-examinations…
Prostate Cancer
Screening and early detection of prostate cancer is very important which enables more effective treatment and a better chance of recovery. Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by both cancerous (malignant) and non-cancerous (benign) prostate tissue.
Cancer cells can cause PSA levels in the blood to rise, and that’s why a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) simple blood test can be used to help detect prostate abnormalities – read more… These PSA tests are available at most CANSA Care Centres across the country.
CANSA also offers health awareness materials and screening information at CANSA Care Centres countrywide.
“We urge all men to get informed about cancer, especially prostate and testicular cancer. Know the symptoms of these cancers and learn ways to lower your cancer risk,” advises CANSA Acting CEO Elize Joubert.
Tips for Men’s Health
- If you are 40 years or older go for an annual PSA screening to detect possible prostate cancer
- Do monthly testicular self-examinations, especially between ages of 15 to 39
- Don’t smoke. If you currently smoke – get help and quit (http://www.ekickbutt.org.za/)
- Don’t drink more than two standard alcoholic drinks per day
- Avoid being overweight
- Exercise each day for at least 30 min
- Eat at least five portions of vegetables and fruit daily
- Limit your meat intake to 300g, four times a week
- Avoid food that is fatty, sugary, salty and | or processed
- Drink enough safe, clean water every day (6-8 glasses per day)
- Be safe in the sun, cover up with sunscreen
Movember Navigation Programme
The Movember Navigation Programme is made possible with funds raised by all the dedicated Mo Bros and Mo Sistas, from the Movember Foundation and aims to provide care and support to prostate and testicular cancer survivors throughout South Africa.
The Movember Navigation Programme involves recruiting and training male volunteers (referred to as ‘navigators’) to assist prostate and testicular cancer survivors.
The volunteers enable survivors to access the care they need from health and medical services, specifically public facilities, as quickly and efficiently as possible. They are also trained to give care that is appropriate and sensitive to each individual’s situation, culture and knowledge of cancer, as well as cater to the needs of the families and caregivers.
The programme integrates guidance on lifestyle changes e.g. nutrition, smoking cessation, sexual health and psychosocial support and counselling. To show your support, sign up on www.movember.com
About CANSA
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