Shining A Spotlight On Men's Health

What Is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer occurs in some men when normal cells in the prostate gland start to grow abnormally and in an uncontrolled manner, resulting in a ‘malignant’ or cancerous tumour which has the potential to invade and destroy normal tissue.

Left undetected and untreated, prostate cancer may continue to grow and possibly spread elsewhere in the body, a process known as metastasis.

 Key facts about prostate cancer in Australia

1. It was the most common cancer in Australia in 2011, with 19,993 new cases reported.

2. Around 17,250 new cases diagnosed in 2015, reflecting around 25 per cent of all cancers in men.

3. Prostate cancer caused 3,079 deaths in 2012 and over 3,440 deaths in 2015.

4. By the end of 2009, there were 86,207 men still alive after being diagnosed with prostate cancer within the preceding five-year period.

5. For the period from 2007-11, men with prostate cancer had a 93 per cent chance of surviving for another five years, when compared to men in the general population.

6. Survival has improved over time, with five-year relative survival increasing from 57 per cent during 1982-86 to 93 per cent during 2007-11. This essentially means that more men affected by prostate cancer are surviving for a longer period.

 This is where life insurance products can help

It is timely to consider the various insurance policies that may best protect you against the financial effects of prostate cancer.

Many people may not be aware that insurance can help manage the medical fees and living costs associated with a serious disease such as prostate cancer. The cost of this form of cancer, including lost lifetime earnings, is estimated to be over $450,000.

Trauma insurance can provide a lump sum payment, among other benefits for people suffering from one of a range of specified medical events, including prostate cancer. A lump sum payment could be crucial to helping someone living with the disease, to assist with any financial strain that may come with associated medical and accommodation expenses. Trauma insurance proceeds can also be used to reduce debt to allow more flexibility with work, such as when working part time or changing careers.

A prostate cancer diagnoses can often be overwhelming. However, a comprehensive insurance plan can alleviate the stress associated with financial uncertainty, and allow you to focus on your health and family.