Following the news that prostate cancer has overtaken breast cancer in the UK as the third most common cause of cancer death[1], ECIS is urging electrical contractors to raise awareness amongst their staff of the disease, its symptoms and testing opportunities.
New research from Prostate Cancer UK reveals that 11,819 men now die from prostate cancer every year – this equates to around 32 deaths per day. Older men, men with a family history of prostate cancer and black men are more at risk.
Employee benefits specialist ECIS believes that testing for prostate cancer should become more readily discussed and encouraged in the workplace, particularly in the electrical contracting industry where the age profile shows a high proportion of workers are over 50 years old, placing them at higher risk.
“When it comes to prostate cancer, early intervention is absolutely key to prompt diagnosis, better prognosis and survival rates,” said Vicki Leslie, Client Relationship Manager at ECIS. “We have dealt with several cases where, after attending a health assessment, prostate cancer was diagnosed and ultimately a life was saved thanks to early treatment.”
“Men can be reluctant to get their prostate checked due to the traditionally invasive nature of the examination, however these days a simple blood test to measure prostate specific antigen (PSA) can now identify potential problems. So there really is no reason for men not to look after their health and take a closer look at this important health issue. ECIS encourage electrical contractors to promote the same message to their staff.”
Promotional tools and resources are available from Prostate Cancer UK at www.prostatecanceruk.org.
