‘Prostate cancer is the state’s most commonly diagnosed cancer, but many men find it difficult to talk about, so they may not gain a full picture of treatment and support options,’ Jane Crowther from Cancer Councils Western Region office in Orange said.

In the NSW Western region about 250 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer and more than 50 men lose their lives to the disease each year.

Ms Crowther said: ‘The good news is survival rates continue to improve and a wide range of support is available to men affected by prostate cancer.

‘This confidential call-in will provide men and their families with an opportunity to get the facts under their belt about risk factors, diagnosis, treatment options and whether men should be tested for prostate cancer.

‘Specialists including urologists, medical oncologists, nurses and prostate cancer survivors will offer advice and answer what can often be difficult and confronting questions about the disease.

‘For the cost of a local call, it’s an ideal opportunity for people living in regional and rural areas of the Western region to speak with specialists, who may not be accessible locally’ she said.

The Prostate Cancer Call-In is organised by Cancer Council and the Australian Prostate Cancer Collaboration (APCC). Lines will be open from 9am to 9pm on Thursday, 11 September.

Cancer Council also provides a number of other support services to men affected by prostate cancer throughout the year. For further details, call the Cancer Council Hotline on 13 11 20, or visit www.cancercouncil.com.au.