Study shows nearly one in five 40+ regional WA residents don’t know common prostate cancer symptom

South West men are being urged to get themselves checked for prostate cancer with men having a one-in-eight chance of being diagnosed with the disease by the time they’re aged 75. The plea comes as a 2024 survey of more than 1200 adults living in regional WA over the age of 40 found slightly more than eight in 10 knew issues with urination could be related to cancer. Common symptoms of prostate cancer include issues starting or stopping urinating, frequency of urination, issues with flow along with rapid unprompted weight loss. Cancer Council WA South West regional education officer Julie Rose said if someone had experienced any of those for more than four weeks, they should see a health professional. “These symptoms can be due to other reasons, but if you have had any of these for more than four weeks, or you’ve noticed blood in your pee or semen, even just once, tell your doctor, clinic nurse or Aboriginal health worker as soon as possible,” she said. “It doesn’t mean you’ve got prostate cancer — often it turns out to be something far less serious and your doctor may be able to help reduce the annoying symptoms.” In 2019, 258 men died from prostate cancer Statewide with 22 of those in the South West region. The importance of being vigilant on potential cancers means a lot to some in the region. Capel resident and prostate cancer survivor Brian Fisher has once again joined forces with Cancer Council WA to urge men to put their egos to one side. “If you notice anything unusual, be sure to get it checked,” he said. “If you have a symptom, don’t mess around and be the tough Aussie guy. “None of this ‘I’ll be right’ nonsense, if you have a symptom, get to a doctor.” For more information about prostate cancer symptoms, visit www.findcancerearly.com.au or call Cancer Council’s information and support line on 13 11 20.