Link Article April 2025
Prostate Cancer Awareness Campaign – Highworth
Prostate cancer, the most common cancer among men worldwide, deserves our attention
and action. This disease impacts millions, and yet, the stigma around discussing men’s
health issues often prevents early detection and treatment. While the disease
mainly affects men over 50 , younger individuals are not immune. Factors like family
history, ethnicity, and diet can also increase risk.
Given the lack of National programs and hence the reluctance of GP’s to raise the issue of
testing, we believe that many men, including those in Highworth, may not fully understand
the dangers that prostrate cancer represents and have never been tested. It is a fact that
prostrate cancer is now England’s most common cancer, and cases are growing. Current
statistics indicate that 1 in 7 men will develop prostrate cancer in their lifetime and early
detection is key to the success of treatment.
Awareness of this disease should not just be amongst men but also their partners, wives,
family and friends. Ironically many women are acutely aware of the dangers of breast
cancer and many are regularly tested…..so why is prostrate cancer testing not reflecting
the same level attention? All over the country now, local organisations are starting promote
wide spread awareness and also arranging events for testing, analysis, diagnosis and
follow up advise.
The Highworth & District Lions, The Town council and the national charity “CHAPS” are
reciprocating with an awareness campaign followed by a day of testing at the Highworth
community centre in early July. This day will be staffed by medical professionals who will
take a blood sample which will be sent away for analysis. This initial event will be
discounted by the Highworth Lions so getting in early is recommended as numbers are
limited. During May and June there will be more details circulated including cost, date and
how to sign up.
Finally, please visit the Highworth & District Lions or Town Council stalls during the May
events to register an interest. This data will help to decide if further testing days are
required later in the year.
Let’s make Highworth a Prostrate cancer aware town.
Dave Hazell (On behalf of the Highworth Lions, Town Council and CHAPS)