Remember: Prostate and childhood cancer awareness
SEPTEMBER is being celebrated as both Prostate and Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
For childhood cancers, the Bustamante Hospital for Children commemorated the month under the theme “Little superheroes fighting big battles”. Each year, more than 20 children are diagnosed with cancer at the hospital, and the objective of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is not only to increase awareness about childhood cancer, but to educate the public about the disease and the organisations that provide support for children with cancer.
A number of activities have been planned throughout this month including educational talks for parents of children with cancer, and the hospital staff will participate in an educational session hosted by the Sick Kids Caribbean Initiative, through the hospital’s telemedicine facilities.
A treat for childhood cancer patients is also planned for September 29 and is a partnership between the hospital and Flow Jamaica Foundation.
It is estimated that one in 10 men in Jamaica will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and if caught early, it can be effectively treated.
The month is being celebrated under the theme “Don’t Procrastinate….Check Your Prostate”, and the Jamaica Cancer Society is appealing for all men over 40 to get their prostate checked.
It is recommended that men know their status by getting a Prostate Specific Antigen test done, and a Digital Rectal Examination by a urologist, and make healthy lifestyle choices by consuming a diet low in fat, increase their intake of fruits and vegetables, and fish rich in omega 3. Exercise is also recommended.
