Families prefer dads to bikes

A Harley Davidson rider says too many blokes are dying because of a "she'll be right" attitude to their health.

Aucklander John Bourne stopped in Palmerston North yesterday as he travels the country for Blue September, prostate cancer awareness month.

Twenty years ago, Mr Bourne's mother died of lymphoma cancer, and his daughter is going through chemotherapy as she battles with breast cancer.

His own heartbreak over cancer inspired him to ride his Harley around New Zealand's coast, talking about the importance of men's health checkups.

In New Zealand one in 10 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and 600 die annually.

The traditional test for prostate cancer puts many blokes off, he said.

"It's a bloke thing, because the method of testing for prostate cancer is a finger up the bum. For women they feel the boobs.

"I know what I'd prefer," Mr Bourne joked.

Men aged over 40 can also have an annual PSA blood test and watch for warning signs, such as more frequent toilet visits or discomfort while peeing.

"Men think they're invincible, they grin and bear it thinking they'll be right. Men need to spend as much money on themselves as they do on their bikes, because families want dads more than the bike."

To follow John Bourne's trip go to coastridernz.com.

- © Fairfax NZ News