HALIFAX - More than 25,000 Canadian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year. Although it's one of the most curable types of cancer, battling the diseases takes both a physical and mental toll on men.
A first of its kind program in Halifax aims to help men recover from the disease physically and mentally - a fitness program specifically tailored for prostate cancer survivors.
It's called PSA Fitness, which stands for power, strength and agility. The free nine-week program at Prostate Cancer Canada office on Sackville St. mixes yoga and weight training.
PSA Fitness creator Ashley Zahavich says the side effects of treatment can continue for years and this program can help "increase the quality of life" for those going through treatment right now or in the past.
"When illnesses and diagnosis come, we tend to go into a fight or flight or fear mode," says PSA Fitness yoga instructor Leanne Whiting.
"Yoga really helps with some of the fear and stresses that come up," Whiting says.
Program participant Rob Isbister says the program has helped him calm himself since going through surgery, hormone and radiation treatments after he was diagnosed last year.
"It's a pretty traumatic time when you're diagnosed and going through it, so maybe the combination of the two (activities) will help you get through it in a better way," he says.
It also gives the men a chance to socialize with others who are going through the same ordeal.
"When you're with people who went down the same road and had the same problems, it's good," prostate cancer survivor Jim Stolzman says. "We support each other. There's a comfort level with everybody... It's a good place."
Watch extended video of a PSA Fitness class:
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting Canadian men, says Peter Mallette, director, Prostate Cancer Canada Atlantic Region
Although one in seven men will be diagnosed with the disease, it's 90 per cent curable of men get tested and treated early enough.
"It's our time to take control of our own health," Mallette says. "PSA Fitness connects prostate cancer survivors in Halifax and seeks to enhance their overall quality of life throughout treatment and recovery."
PSA Fitness classes happen twice a week and are open to anyone diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The class take place Mondays and Thursdays, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the Prostate Cancer Canada Atlantic office at 5121 Sackville Street in Halifax.
The nine-week program began January 9.
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