Running cancer outta town

THE Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) has ‘dared’ Durban men to take part in the annual Daredevil Run to create awareness and facilitate discussion around prostate cancer on Friday, 19 February.

Alarming statistics have revealed that one in 27 South African men run the risk of contracting prostate cancer.

However, according to Cara Noble, CANSA KZN divisional services manager, very few men are talking about cancer or getting tested.

“There is a lot of awareness surrounding breast cancer and women are talking about cancer, but there is still so much stigma surrounding men’s’ cancer,” she said.

The whole idea behind the run, she added, was for men to step out of their comfort zones and to take a stand against cancer.

“We are challenging all the brave men, whether they are a cancer survivor, a friend or family member to join in on the fun awareness initiative,” added Noble.

Sunningdale resident, Roley Weir-Smith is one of the residents who will be participating the daring event.

According to Weir-Smith he will be braving the tiny purple Speedo as a cancer survivor.

“I am currently in remission and I think people should be highlighting the importance of early detection. There is always that idea that it wont happen to you. I was diagnosed after a routine blood test. Fortunately it was picked up early, but if it wasn’t for the blood test I might not have these extra precious years,” he said.

All entrants aged 40 and over will receive a free prostrate exam on the day. Men younger than 40 are encouraged to nominate on older family member or friend instead.

All event’s entry fees will be donated to CANSA and used to set up more mobile testing units so that more men can get themselves tested. The test only involves a small finger prick, said Noble.

Entry fees costs R150 per adult and R50 for students. The event will start at 3pm at Bike and Bean on the Durban beachfront.