Next two weeks dedicated to prostate cancer awareness

For the next two weeks, the island of Saipan will be busy spreading the word about the dangers of prostate cancer.

Saipan Mayor Juan B. Tudela yesterday proclaimed Sept. 12 through 24 as Prostate Cancer Awareness Weeks in the municipality of Saipan.

“We want [the public] to know [that] the best way to prevent it is to be tested every year, and to eat a healthy low-fat diet,” said Tudela.

The municipality’s awareness campaign for prostate cancer started three years ago when it was only a one-day event. Tudela, however, said that one day is too short a time to make the campaign effective, spurring his office to extend the effort to two weeks starting last year.

Attending the proclamation signing yesterday were representatives Jesus N. Lizama and Crispin M. Ogo. Lizama. Ogo read the proclamation prior to the mayor’s signing.

The theme of the campaign this year is “Real Men Do It! Prostate Cancer Screening Saves Lives.”

Og said that in 2005 there were approximately 232,090 men across the United States who learned they have prostate cancer—the most diagnosed non-skin cancer among men.

Approximately 30,350 men will lose their lives to prostate cancer this year and one in six men in the nation are at risk of developing the cancer in men during their lifetime.

Lizama said prostate cancer leaves too many families, including parents, women, children and other members, without the man they love. He said research now suggests that men could reduce the risk of prostate cancer mortality if they follow recommended screening guidelines.

Commonwealth Cancer Association president Hans Mickelson said that, being a prostate cancer survivor himself, he is encouraging men in their 40s and 50s to be examined for possible prostate problem.

Mickelson said his prostate cancer was detected when he was 47. “Early detection is advisable because catching it early can provide more options of preventing it,” he said.

Tudela said this year’s campaign would again include “VIP bagging” at Price Costco on Sept. 17 and 24. There will also be presentations before the members of business and local groups on Saipan such as the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, Saipan Rotary Club, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, CNMI Power, United Filipino Organization, Public School System, and other civic groups. Representatives from religious groups also attended the event. (Marconi Calindas)