The number of men being diagnosed with prostate cancer has increased significantly in Tasmania, according to new statistics from the Tasmanian Cancer Registry.

The number of men being diagnosed with prostate cancer has increased significantly in Tasmania, according to new statistics from the Tasmanian Cancer Registry.

The Cancer in Tasmania: Incidence and Mortality 2007 report shows that prostate cancer was the most common cancer diagnosed in males in 2007 with 645 new cases. In comparison, only 487 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2006. The statistics show that the number of deaths resulting from prostate cancer diagnoses has not increased.

Tests available for finding prostate cancer are the prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test and digital rectal examination (DRE).

Current evidence, however, indicates that PSA testing is not suitable for routine screening of men without symptoms or a family history, as the harms often outweigh the benefits.

"Unlike for cancers of the bowel, breast and cervix, there is insufficient evidence to support the benefits of screening for prostate cancer," Professor Venn said.

General Pracitioner (GP), Professor Mark Nelson, says men need to be well informed of the benefits and harms of prostate cancer testing and treatment, so they can make an informed, personal choice about prostate cancer detection.

"If they are concerned about prostate cancer or considering being tested, they should talk with their GP," Professor Nelson said.

"Lung cancer is still by far the biggest cancer killer in Tasmania for both men and women according to the 2007 report, and is largely preventable," Professor Venn said.

Cancer Council Tasmania CEO Darren Carr said community education was vital when it came to prostate health.

''Cancer Council Tasmania encourages men who are concerned about prostate cancer to discuss it with their doctor and to make an informed choice about detection or treatment,'' Mr Carr said.

''Those with a family history, or symptoms of prostate cancer, should discuss their options with a GP.

''People need to understand that many prostate cancers grow slowly without requiring treatment or intervention, and this means that many men with prostate cancer can lead a normal life without being affected in any significant way by their cancer.

''Following a diagnosis of prostate cancer, men must make an informed choice about treatment and consider the various side effects of treatment, which can include impotence and/or incontinence.

''Current best evidence suggests 'watchful waiting' in cases of early, low-grade prostate cancer,'' Mr Carr said.

Anyone with questions regarding prostate cancer can call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20 on Thursday 9 September between 6pm and 9pm, when a range of prostate specialists will be on hand to answer any questions.

Symptoms of prostate cancer can include:

-       the need to urinate frequently, sudden urges to urinate or difficulty starting urine flow;

-       A slow, interrupted flow and dribbling afterwards; and

-       Pain during urination or blood in the urine or semen.

Statistics and further information:

Cancer in Tasmania: Incidence and Mortality 2007

http://www.menzies.utas.edu.au/pdf/TCRReport2007.pdf

Prostate Cancer Screening in Australia: Cancer Council Australia

http://cancer.org.au/policy/positionstatements/prostatecancer.htm

Information Released by:

Fiona Horwood, Communications Manager

Phone: 6226 7751 Mobile: 0409 357 384

Email: Fiona.Horwood@menzies.utas.edu.au

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