"Bowel and prostate cancer are the two most common cancers affecting men in Victoria,'' said The Cancer Council Victoria's manager of community education programs, Darren Freak.

"Men are not always very keen to speak to their doctor about health concerns. The aim of this forum is to provide information for men and women, and answer their questions about these common cancers in a relaxed and informal environment.

"We hope that by educating men and their partners, friends or families, about the prevention, early detection and treatment of bowel and prostate cancer, we can reduce the impact of cancer in Ararat and the surrounding areas.''

The forum takes place next Monday, September 8 at Ararat RSL.

Specialist speakers will include, Richard McMullin, urologist, and Bruce Stewart, colorectal surgeon, who will present at the forum, facilitated by The Cancer Council Victoria's Susanne Line.

Men and women are encouraged to come along.

Those attending will learn about latest developments in testing and treatment for bowel and prostate cancer, including the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, as well the lifestyle changes they can make to reduce their risk of developing cancer.

Following the speakers there will be an opportunity to ask questions, with a light supper provided by the Ararat and District Prostate Cancer Support Group.

The free Bowel and Prostate Cancer Awareness Forum will be held at the RSL next Monday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Seat bookings are essential. For further information and bookings call: Leonie Tellefson, community health nurse, East Grampians Community Centre, phone 5352 9327.