Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men. Every year approximately 20,000 men are diagnosed with it and tragically around 3500 lives are lost to prostate cancer annually.

Whilst approximately 95 per cent of people diagnosed with prostate cancer survive for at least five years, prostate cancer is estimated to be the second most common cause of death from cancer in Australian men.

Regular health checkups are vital in beating the disease and early detection is crucial in effectively fighting prostate cancer.

Men over the age of 50 - or 40 if they have a family history of prostate cancer - need to talk with their GP about prostate health.

If you fit the criteria, make sure you get in and speak to your GP about your prostate health and remind your loved ones and friends to as well.

From June 10-16, Australia celebrates International Men's Health Week, which presents a great opportunity to host a free awareness talk for your workplace, organisation or club.

Men's Health Week is designed to provoke thought and discussion about what needs to be done to improve the lives and health of men and boys. It is an important opportunity to highlight men's health and what it means to be healthy.

Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia Ambassadors are trained community volunteers who present on prostate cancer awareness, talk about their personal cancer experience and the importance of getting checked.

Port Stephens is home to a prostate cancer support group.

Tomaree Prostate Cancer Support Group assist men with prostate cancer in the Nelson Bay area.

In addition to providing transport to patients, the group provides knowledge, social interaction and support and works to create and foster awareness of prostate cancer in the local community.

You can get in touch with the group through its website: tomareeprostatesupport.org.au.

There are other ways to get involved with Men's Health Week but the simplest is starting a conversation with your friends about prostate cancer and men's health.