Published: Monday, 8th March, 2010 5:40pm

Osborne Highlights Prostate Awareness Month

Sandra Osborne MP highlights the prevalence of prostate disease in Ayr, Carrick & Cumnock.

As Prostate Cancer Awareness month begins Sandra Osborne has been learning more about prostate disease in Ayr, Carrick & Cumnock and what men can do to be aware of their own prostate health.

Around 8,686 men in Ayr, Carrick, Cumnock & Doon Valley are likely to suffer from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and in 2008, 342 men died in the west of Scotland as a result of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer kills one man every hour in Britain.

Amanda McLean, Chief Executive of Prostate UK said, "One in two men will suffer from a prostate disease at some stage in their lives. We are very pleased that Sandra Osborne is helping to highlight the issue of prostate disease, especially during Prostate Cancer Awareness month. By increasing awareness we hope more men will understand the very simple steps they can take to find out about their own prostate health. Hopefully a wider understanding of the issues will put a stop to prostate disease ruining lives".

Sandra Osborne said: "Early detection of a prostate disease vastly improves the chances of successful treatment so education of the public and of healthcare professionals is vital. Prostate UK are doing a brilliant job raising awareness, funding research and training health professionals".