CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month during September is especially significant for the estimated 2 million men in the U.S. living with prostate cancer. That number is expected to double over the next eight years as baby boomers age. Each of these men and his spouse/partner and loved ones need information about various treatments and side effect management to minimize the impact of the disease and maximize the quality of life.
Us TOO International is a prostate cancer nonprofit that provides educational resources and support services to the prostate cancer community at no charge. The services provided include more than 250 volunteer-led support groups throughout the U.S. and abroad to help men and their loved ones make informed decisions about prostate cancer detection, active surveillance, treatment options and management of side effects.
“Support groups and educational forums provide an invaluable service to the prostate cancer community,” notes Us TOO CEO Chuck Strand. “Understandably, a prostate cancer diagnosis or disease progression is stressful due in part to the education required and support needed to identify the best option for moving forward. The peer-to-peer interaction at support groups includes sharing perspective and knowledge from others who have ‘been there and done that.’”
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer for men and the second leading cause of men’s cancer death killing nearly 30,000 annually. While most men diagnosed are at least 50 years old, the disease also affects younger men – especially those who are at high-risk, which includes African Americans, those with prostate cancer in the family, and military veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange.
Prostate cancer has no symptoms until it’s advanced. But if detected early, it is often treatable. Testing includes a PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test and a DRE (digital rectal exam); a biopsy is required to diagnose prostate cancer.
About Us TOO International
In 1990, Us TOO was founded by—and continues to be governed by—people directly affected by prostate cancer. Us TOO International is a nonprofit that serves the prostate cancer community by providing educational resources and support services at no charge. The mission of Us TOO is to provide hope and improve the lives of those affected by prostate cancer through support, education and advocacy. Find information on Us TOO support groups and resources at www.ustoo.org or call 800-808-7866.
