Rotary Red Socks – Early Detection of Men’s Prostate Cancer.

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About Project Red Socks

What is Rotary Red Socks?

Project Red Socks is about saving lives through the early detection of Prostate Cancer.

In June 2013 long time Rotarian Denis Denmead PHF, of Townsville, passed away as a result of an aggressive Prostate Cancer illness. Dennis was born in England and was a devout supporter of the Arsenal Football Club and as a result only wore red socks, which is Arsenal’s primary colour.

The Rotary branded Red Socks then became a reward for club members after they have taken the prostate cancer PSA test. The initiative has since grown globally and extended into other prostate cancer awareness initiatives.

The aim of Project Red Socks is to increase awareness of Prostate Cancer and the need for early consultation with a medical practitioner. The socks and information packs are meant to act as a trigger for men to be aware and vigilant of the disease. The project branding also promotes the goals of Rotary International.

Discover why we need to take the battle to men's prostate cancer.

1 in 5 males in Australia will be diagnosed with prostate cancer by the age of 85. Find out why we’re working hard for early detection of prostate cancer throughout the community.

Project Red Socks is about saving lives through the early detection of Prostate Cancer

A recent report in the Lancet (2024) highlights the future landscape of prostate cancer. It projects the cases of prostate cancer will double from 1.4 million per year in 2020, to 2.9 million per year by 2040, with low and middle income countries seeing the highest increases in cases.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men across 112 countries. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in men.
The report noted that one of the best ways to improve prostate cancer outcomes is to expand screening amongst high risk populations, so that the disease can be diagnosed at early stages where treatment is typically most effective.
The report emphasizes the need for:
- Improved Screening
- Awareness Programs
- Diversified Research
- Enhanced Treatment Options
In Australia there is a 21% increase in the death rate in rural areas. This is likely to be occurring in other countries.
Significant increases in detection of the disease are now being experienced in Australia and the USA.
A family history of the disease is relevant.
There is an increase in younger persons with the disease. It can be more aggressive in young males.
PSA blood testing benchmarks are being encouraged at an early age.
Early detection is essential for survival of the disease.