Quilpie Red Socks Project
When the Rotary Club of Townsville Sunrise was seeking new ways to implement their Red Socks initiative they took into account the alarming statistics that for every 100 men that dies from prostate cancer in a metropolitan area in Australia, 121 will die in rural areas, i.e. a 21 percent increase.
This in part is attributed to lifestyle, lack of awareness and early medical consultation, and reluctance of aged males to be proactive with their health welfare.
As a result, Quilpie, which is an outback town about 100 k’s from the furthest point from the sea in Australia was selected for a trial whole of community approach for prostate cancer awareness. Quilpie has a population of about 520, less than half are males aged over 50, the majority who have been exposed to a hard outback lifestyle for most of their life.
With the help of some men’s health funding from the local Council, 300 pair of Rotary embossed Red Socks together with information material, including a message from the Mayor, were delivered to every household, including properties in the Shire.
This resulted in the values of Rotary being introduced into all households and a total awareness of the prostate cancer disease. Increased consultations by aged males occurred resulting in increased PSA testing and follow on medical consultations.
The Townsville Sunrise Club successfully carried out a similar exercise in the Flinders Shire in North Queensland in 2019 where 700 socks and kits were delivered into each household, similar to what occurred at Quilpie. More localities are planned.
Survey forms returned during the Quilpie and Flinders Shire trials highlighted the need for male siblings of those diagnosed with the disease to become involved in PSA testing when middle aged. Research has identified a genetic link can occur with the disease.
As a result the KNOW YOUR SCORE marketing initiative was incorporated into the project. This also enables individual projects to be developed and implemented.
Positive outcomes are being achieved through a whole of community approach. The socks act as a trigger to remind ageing male persons to consult with the doctor, resulting in increased consultations. These visits also create an opportunity for the patient/doctor to discuss any other medical/mental health issues that may be present.
Since 2017 more than 9000 pair of socks/packs have been distributed throughout Australia including 1500 pair to Tasmania by a Rotary District Governor when visiting clubs.
There is no limit on how Rotary Clubs and other organisation can use the project to either fundraise or use as a tool to promote prostate cancer awareness. The project is a win/win for all and is saving lives at a minimal cost. Kick start your Red Socks Project today!
