Blue September’s ‘Man Up’ message

PlaceMakers wants you to ‘Man Up’ and give prostate cancer the finger

Subtlety has gone out the window this year for the Blue September campaign, which is taking a fresh approach to making men aware of prostate cancer. Well-known actor Mark Hadlow is fronting the campaign with new TV and radio commercials and is also the face of Blue September on posters, back-of-the-bus advertising and other print media.

The 2015 message is confronting. It seeks to directly address the inhibitions men have to having a digital rectal examination (or DRE) – the physical examination required to check for prostate abnormalities.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in New Zealand men, and the third most common cause of cancer death in men after lung cancer and bowel cancer. The Prostate Cancer Foundation of NZ encourages all men over the age of 40 to have regular prostate checks if there is a family history of prostate cancer. If you’re between 50-70 then consider an annual prostate check that includes both a PSA blood test and digital rectal examination (DRE).

In support of Blue September, landmark buildings around the country are turning blue and, as always, PlaceMakers branches around the country are organising events to raise money and awareness of the disease.

Chilling stats trump chilly water

Waiheke Island’s annual Spring Dip made a big splash about men’s health as 64 brave souls took to the chilly waters of Oneroa on Waiheke Island to kick start Blue September.

“The Spring Dip is a great way to commence the month-long campaign, which aims to raise awareness about prostate cancer and encourage men to get themselves a health check,” says PlaceMakers Waiheke Island branch operator Lee Stickland.

“Despite the cold, rainy morning, there was solid turnout and the pain of the swim was quickly forgotten as there were plenty of PlaceMakers staff on BBQ duty, providing sausages to help warm the swimmers up.”

Between the swim and the prize giving, event MC Barry Hastings spoke about the prostate cancer disease and reminded all participants that it’s the leading cause of death for men over 40.

“It’s a harsh reality, but half of those deaths could be prevented with early detection – so, if even one of our participants gets checked or tells a friend/family/partner to do so, we’re making a difference,” says Lee.

“Throughout the month, Waiheke Island and branches across the country will be hosting a myriad of Blue September events, so make sure to participate in the one near you!”