Community
30 May, 2025
Support group for prostate cancer patients
A PROSTATE cancer diagnosis can be devastating news, not just for the patient but for family and friends.
For anyone who has ever been on a cancer journey, or has supported a friend or loved one, it can be a highly emotional and stressful time.
Having support, whether that be from within your own family or from friends and others on a similar journey, is extremely important.
Warrnambool’s Peter Malcolm knows this all too well.
Having had his prostate removed around two years ago, following a cancer diagnosis, Peter was (and remains) thankful for the support of his family and friends.
“Having such a supportive family is what helps get you through,” he said.
“But people need to know they’re not alone on their journey.
“There are around 30 prostate cancer support groups across Victoria, including a wonderful group in Warrnambool.”
According to figures released by the Cancer Council, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia – and it is estimated that one in six males will be diagnosed by the time they are 85.
It is also estimated that there were 26,368 cases of prostate cancer diagnosed in 2024.
While the average age at diagnosis is just 70 years old, early prostate cancer usually doesn’t cause symptoms.
“Like many people, I had no symptoms whatsoever before my diagnosis of prostate cancer,” Peter said.
“I was fortunate that my GP did a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test each year; many doctors don’t which is a real shame.
“It’s a simple blood test that measures the amount of PSA, a protein produced by both normal and cancerous prostate cells, circulating in the blood.”
While small amounts of PSA are typically present, elevated levels can indicate prostate issues, including cancer.
“Like so many cancers, early detection is the key and I encourage all men to ask their doctors about PSA testing because it really is such a simple test.”
Having gone through a cancer diagnosis and treatment, Peter is today an advocate for the Warrnambool prostate cancer support group.
“Having family support is so vital, but so too is being able to share your experiences and your journey with others who have undergone similar experiences,” he said.
“Everyone has a different journey but it’s comforting to know that you certainly aren’t alone. And it’s important for men to be able to meet in a safe, welcoming environment.
“Our group meets bi-monthly at the Warrnambool Men’s Shed in Hyland Street and we all enjoy the opportunity to talk about our experiences and also have a few laughs.”
The next group meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 4 from 7.30pm.
“Everyone is welcome; not just those who have had cancer but also their partners or support people.”
