October has become famous for supporting Breast Cancer Awareness, with many people wearing Pink Ribbons. Autism Awareness has adopted the Jigsaw Puzzle Ribbon for the month of April and the Rainbow Ribbon is now being worn in the month of June to show support for Gay Pride. But what were people aware of in September?
September is National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. What many people don’t know is that, as breast cancer affects 1 in every 8 women, prostate cancer affects 1 in every 6 men. Society does not focus as much on prostate cancer even though it is equally as important. The awareness ribbon associated with this disease is light blue.
Prostate Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed and the second most common cause of cancer death in men. Also known as Adenocarcinoma, this disease is a cancerous tumor that consists of gland cells from the prostate. It’s very dangerous, but usually starts off small with slow growth patterns, which can leave it undetected for many years. This is part of the reason why it is mostly found much later in a man’s life.
“I feel as though we aren’t as much informed about prostate cancer as we should be, even though it is a very serious matter. People should be more aware of the effects of prostate cancer,” senior Brent Saltzman said. “Even though it doesn’t affect me at this moment in time, I know I have to be careful in the future.”
Unfortunately, no one is quite sure what causes this disease, but doctors have suggested different methods of prevention. This includes eating habits, like eating cooked tomatoes and fish, or drinking coffee and green tea.
Smoking is thought to be a factor that affects the chances of getting prostate cancer, along with the amount of stress in a person’s life.
Prostate Cancer can affect anyone; even celebrities such as actor Robert DeNiro and Senator John Kerry are survivors. Arnold Palmer, a golf professional, has become a national spokesman for the illness. During an interview with Sharon Tanenbaum, Senior News Editor for Everydayhealth.com, he was asked for tips on how to best survive this cancer. He feels that it is best that you see your doctor regularly.
“There’s nothing better than going to the doctor and knowing just exactly where you stand,” Palmer said. “That’s so important for men to do.”
Cancer touches everyone in one way or another, through friends, family members, and celebrities. The next time a pink awareness ribbon comes to mind, do not forget to think about the light blue ribbon as well and show support in fighting prostate cancer.