With special guests:
- Ben Peacock
- Dr Andrew Penman AM
Ben Peacock
In our first show for 2012 we focus on a serious health issue for men, particularly those under 50. Ben Peacock is a survivor of testicular cancer and the author of a book titled Lessons from my Left Testicle: A turbulent tale to help put life in perspective first published in 2009. Ben was happy to tell us that it is now five years since his diagnosis which is a critical milestone for all forms of cancer.
Ben tells us today about the importance of acting quickly and going to your doctor if you have any suspicious lumps or changes in your body. We hear in a no-nonsense way what to expect before and after you know for certain that you have cancer.
Want to know what it is really like for the person with cancer? What suddenly becomes more important in your life? How should carers, family and loved ones respond to the crisis? Listen in to hear how Ben stayed motivated and the messages he now has for all of us.
Dr Andrew Penman
Our second guest in today’s show is Dr Andrew Penman AM, Chief Executive Officer, Cancer Council NSW. Dr Penman is well qualified to give expert advice on the topic of testicular cancer with degrees in biochemistry and medicine. His experience in public health derives from working in Australia and overseas countries before being appointed to his present position in 1998. In 2010 Dr Penman was appointed Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his contribution to public health.
The incidence of testicular cancer is increasing for reasons that are still unknown. What we do know is that football injuries, tight undies and hot baths are not risk factors and that is a relief for all of us.
We hear what are the real risk factors and the current success rate in treating testicular cancer. Dr Penman addresses the most common fears in this area and tells us what the Cancer Council is doing to get the message out. The Cancer Council Helpline is an invaluable resource for people unsure of what to expect and their number is 131120.