One in eight: Saskatchewan campaign urges men to take prostate cancer seriously
Awareness month promotes risk assessment, early detection and support
Saskatchewan, September 8, 2026 —For Saskatchewan men, knowing the risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer can play a very import role in reducing negative outcomes.
Prostate Cancer Support Saskatoon, the Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan and Bit Service Company have joined forces in the launch of the “Blue Fridays” campaign, to raise awareness and donations in support of September’s Prostate Cancer Awareness month. The Blue Fridays campaign brings together a number of companies that promote Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in their businesses, through window clings, bracelets, lanyards and reading materials, and encourages employees to wear blue every Friday in support of prostate cancer awareness,
“Prostate cancer can affect men and families across Saskatchewan, which is why we want to make prostate health part of the conversation,” said Murray Hill of Prostate Cancer Support Saskatoon. “Understanding your personal risk and taking the time to talk with your health-care provider can help you make informed decisions about your health. Our hope is that Blue Fridays will encourage more men to start that conversation and take action for their prostate health.”
The month is intended to spotlight prostate health and encourage men to know their risk, have conversations with their health-care providers about testing and understand where to find support if cancer affects them or someone they love.
For Scott Bahr, current owner of Bit Service Company, this month has a more personal connection. In 2022, former Bit Service Company owner Ken Klotz passed away from prostate cancer. Bahr says it is because of this that Bit Service is committed to raising awareness and supporting prostate cancer patients in the province.
“Ken worked at the Bit Service for 45 years eventually becoming a co-owner before retiring. Bit Service has committed to donating $5000 in support and encourages all of their customers and suppliers to support as well,” said Bahr.
Prostate cancer is a serious disease that affects many. In fact, one in eight Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. The majority of cases occur in men over 50.
Saskatchewan has a particularly important role to play in raising awareness. Research has identified Saskatchewan as having one of the highest rates of prostate cancer in Canada, reinforcing the importance of knowing the risk factors and taking steps toward timely discovery.
CEO of the Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan, Nora Yeates agrees and points out the importance of early detection.
“When cancer is caught early, there can be more treatment options and better outcomes. We know that early detection saves lives,” said Yeates.
Hill says that for those who receive a cancer diagnosis, connecting with others can be very important.
“A prostate cancer diagnosis can bring a lot of uncertainty, but no one should feel they have to navigate it alone,” said Hill. “Talking with other men and families who have been through similar experiences can provide reassurance, practical information and a sense of connection. Reaching out for support can be an important part of the journey.”
This September, men across Saskatchewan are encouraged to take an active role in their prostate health — learn about their risk, have a conversation about testing and seek support when they need it.
For more information about Prostate Cancer Support Saskatchewan visit https://www.saskprostate.ca/. For more information about the Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan and current fundraising initiatives please visit https://www.cancerfoundationsask.ca/events/prostate-cancer-awareness-month/