Pints for Prostates Delivers Mens Health Message Using the Universal Language of Beer
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There are more than 230,000 cases of prostate cancer diagnosed in the U.S. each year, more than the number as new breast cancer cases in women. The problem is that prostate cancer does not get the same level of media attention as breast cancer and most men never discuss the subject with friends or family, Lyke said. Luckily I insisted on having a PSA test during a routine physical because a good friend is being treated for the disease. Time is precious when you are fighting prostate cancer. I received the gift of time from a friend. I felt like I had a responsibility to warn other men.
After successful prostate surgery, Lyke started to think about ways to reach as many men as possible with a message about prostate screening and PSA testing. That is when it occurred to him that one of the best ways to reach men is over a pint of beer.
Lyke started Pints for Prostates after talking to a couple of editors at magazines where he writes. The idea was well received and he contacted Us TOO International Prostate Cancer Education and Support Network, a not-for-profit group that works to support, educate and advocate for men with prostate cancer.
The idea of reaching mean about health issues through beer sounded a little strange at first, but it makes perfect sense, said Thomas Kirk, President and CEO of Us TOO International. One in six men is at risk of developing prostate cancer during their life time and early detection through the monitoring of PSA levels is critical to getting the disease under control. Pints for Prostates will help us reach more men at a time when a growing number of men are at risk.
Pints for Prostates is focused on reaching men during September, which is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. So far 10 beer and beverage-related publications have pledged their support.
Men can tell you about their favorite IPA (India Pale Ale), but few know about their PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen). We need to help educate them about getting the simple blood test that measures prostate specific antigens because it can save their lives, Lyke said.
Find information at www.ustoo.org/pints. |
