During a recent city council meeting, Lacey Mayor Andy Reiter proclaimed September 2024 as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, emphasizing the critical importance of early detection and education surrounding the disease. Prostate cancer is notably the second leading cause of cancer death among men in the United States, with over 248,000 diagnoses and more than 34,000 deaths annually.

Mayor Reiter, who is currently undergoing treatment for prostate cancer himself, shared his personal journey with the illness, highlighting the emotional challenges and the importance of seeking medical advice. He urged men to engage in discussions with their healthcare providers about prostate health and to consider regular screenings, which can lead to a near 100% survival rate when the cancer is caught early.

The proclamation aims to mobilize community organizations, healthcare providers, and individuals to promote awareness and support educational efforts regarding prostate cancer. Reiter expressed his hope that by sharing his experience, he could encourage at least one person to get tested, potentially saving a life.

Paul Eldenberg, representing the Olympia/Lacey Prostate Cancer Support Group, accepted the proclamation and echoed the mayor's sentiments. He stressed the necessity of regular testing, particularly for men over 45, and shared insights on the often subtle symptoms of prostate cancer that can lead to late-stage diagnoses if ignored.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the city to disseminate information about the support group and available resources, reinforcing the message that early detection is key to effective treatment and improved outcomes for those affected by prostate cancer.