Tuesday 2 April 2002
The Institute of Cancer Research is delighted to announce today (25th March 2002) that popular TV presenter Dermot O'Leary is to become a patron of its everyman male cancer awareness campaign.
Taking time out of his hectic schedule Dermot explained what drove him to dedicate his services and time to the charity: "Having had personal experience of a loved one who has suffered from cancer I am delighted and proud to be a patron of everyman."
June will mark the fifth everyman; male cancer awareness month and Dermot will be supporting a range of events leading up to this time. everyman was set up by The Institute of Cancer Research in 1997 due to limited awareness of prostate and testicular cancer and severe underfunding for these diseases. One of the campaign's aims was to set up the UK's first dedicated male cancer research centre. Now up and running at The Institute's site in Sutton, Surrey, the everyman centre houses world class scientists, working at the cutting edge of vital research into prostate and testicular cancer.
Professor Colin Cooper from the everyman campaign commented: "We still face numerous obstacles when trying to raise awareness of male cancers: awkwardness, indifference, a reluctance to talk about these diseases, and in some cases, dangerous delays in seeking prompt medical attention for a potential problem. Dermot's involvement with everyman will enable us to alert many more men, and women, to the issues surrounding these cancers."
One man dies from prostate cancer every hour in the UK. It mainly affects older men and worryingly, incidence is predicted to rise considerably, overtaking lung and breast cancer. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men aged between 15 and 35. Cases of testicular cancer have risen by 70% in the last 20 years but doctors do not know why.
Philip Black, Fundraising Director of The Institute of Cancer Research said, "We are delighted that Dermot has agreed to take a leading role in the campaign. Here at everyman we are convinced that these type of awareness campaigns really do save lives and it is vital that the campaign works with high profile people such as Dermot, who can get the message across to other members of the public. His support will give a real boost to the campaign."
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For more information or a copy of the accompanying picture please contact Becky Webb in The Institute of Cancer Research Press Office on 0207 970 6030.
Notes to Editors
- June 2002 will mark the fifth everyman male cancer awareness month.
- The Institute of Cancer Research has recently been named a Centre of Excellence for prostate cancer.
- The Institute of Cancer Research is a charity that depends on voluntary funds.