About 100 cyclists will set off today from Sir James Mitchell Park on the South Perth foreshore for a two-day trek from Perth to Margaret River, raising awareness about a disease that affects thousands of Australians each year.

Speaking at the launch of the event as part of International Prostate Cancer Awareness month, Health Minister Kim Hames said early detection was the key to improving outcomes for those with the disease.

“Prostate cancer is one of the three main causes of cancer-related deaths in males in Western Australia,” Dr Hames said.

“According to recent data, one in seven men in WA will be diagnosed with prostate cancer by the age of 75, but with timely diagnosis and treatment, prostate cancer can be managed effectively, significantly increasing the chances of recovery.

“The trouble is, early stages of prostate cancer rarely have symptoms so I strongly encourage a trip to your GP for assessment on a regular basis.

“Fortunately in WA, we have some of the most advanced facilities and technology to help in the detection and treatment of a range of cancers.

“For example, the $54million Comprehensive Cancer Centre at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital has Australia’s first CyberKnife, a $9million piece of advanced technology used in the treatment of cancers affecting organs such as the lung, brain, liver and prostate.”

Now in its third year, the ride from Perth to Margaret River has attracted male and female cyclists ranging in age from 15 to 75. Proceeds from the event go to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.

“It’s wonderful to see so many people – men and women of all ages – motivated to act on their commitment to help fight cancer in WA, and to support the great work being done by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia,” the Minister said.

The ride kicks off from Sir James Mitchell Park at 7am today and will finish in Margaret River tomorrow afternoon.