The Man to Man program helps men cope with prostate cancer by offering community-based education and support for patients and their family members. In addition, Man to Man plays an important role in community education about prostate cancer, encouraging men and health care professionals to actively consider screening for prostate cancer appropriate for each man's age and risk for the disease.

A core component of the program is the self-help and/or support group. Volunteers organize these free monthly meetings where speakers and participants learn about and discuss information about prostate cancer, treatment, side effects, and how to cope with prostate cancer and its treatment. Some Man to Man groups may invite wives and partners to attend meetings. In other locations, wives and partners may meet separately in a group setting called Side by Side.

Programs services and activities vary depending on the location. Your local program may also include other services and activities such as:

• One-on-one visits with a prostate cancer survivor
• Community education (speaker's bureau)
• The Man to Man newsletter
• Outreach to high-risk groups, such as African-American men
• Outreach and collaboration with health care providers

For more information or to locate a Man to Man program in your area, contact your local American Cancer Society or call us toll-free at 1-800-227-2345.

Last Medical Review: 04/23/2009
Last Revised: 04/23/2009