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In 2009 alone, it is predicted that more than 200,000 men will be diagnosed
with prostate cancer, 12,690 of which are projected to occur in Texas (more
than lung cancer diagnoses in the state).*
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Prostate cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men,
with more than 27,000 men expected to die of the disease this year. More than
11,000 Texas men will be diagnosed in 2009.
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On average, the rate of occurrence of prostate cancer is 60% higher in African
American men than in Caucasian men.*
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Notwithstanding these statistics, the five-year survival rate for men whose
prostate cancer is diagnosed in local and regional stages is close to 100%.
Early diagnosis, in addition to treatment advancements, is said to account for
this high survival rate.*
In addition to offering three free
prostate cancer screening events in
Beaumont, Port Arthur, and Orange, the "Gift of Life" initiates a targeted
outreach campaign during September each year, advising area men about the need
for annual testing and the availability of "Gift of Life" services.
Specifically, the program makes a concerted effort to reach potential clients
in traditionally underserved neighborhoods.
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Television and radio public service announcements
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Billboards in Beaumont, Port Arthur, and Orange (English and Spanish)
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Banners in Beaumont, Port Arthur, and Orange (English, Spanish, and Vietnamese)
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Yard signs in Beaumont, Port Arthur, and Orange
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Flyers distributed throughout Southeast Texas (English and Spanish)
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Prostate cancer awareness displays exhibited at libraries in Beaumont, Port
Arthur, and Orange
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Advertisements in Beaumont, Port Arthur, and Orange newspapers
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More than 15,000 trayliners with special prostate cancer messages used at all
24 Southeast Texas McDonald's locations
Each year, a highly visible and well-respected community leader serves as
honorary chair for Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Past chairs have included
Jerry LeVias, college football Hall of Famer and former wide receiver for the
Houston Oilers and San Diego Chargers, and The Most Reverend Curtis J.
Guillory, SVD, DD, Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Beaumont, County Commissioner Bo Alfred,
State Representative Joe Deshotel and Valero Representative Morris Carter.
Acting as spokesperson for the "Gift of Life" during September, the Honorary
Chair actively communicates the program's critical message of early detection and
preventative health care through television and radio, motivating men to consider
screening. The Chair also attends screening events, visiting with clients.
Further, Sundays in August and September mark the commitment of the "Gift of
Life" to continue its prostate cancer mission in local churches. Focusing on
religious institutions with large numbers of African American congregants,
prostate cancer survivors and other program volunteers share their knowledge
with audiences about the potential health benefits of annual testing. Their
personal testimonies tremendously impact men who are hesitant about the exam.
Read more about our Prostate Cancer Awareness Month activities in Volume 18 of
"Sharing the "Gift of Life."
*American Cancer Society