Thursday 24 December 2009

Mediwatch Newsletter-December 2009

Mediwatch have now produced a 'Newsletter' which can be accessed from the link below or from their website.

Mediwatch Newsletter-December 2009

Monday 14 December 2009

Mediwatch-New Product Launch (updated 24th December)

The Mediwatch distributors are involved in a product launch for both the new Urodyn+ and Portaflow Advanced over this month (you have to be a distributor with a 'login' to follow the links further):

Updated 24th December 2009
"To view product launch video please select your prefered option from the below:

click to view high quality 56mb (Windows Media Video)
click to view medium quality 40mb (Windows Media Video)
click to view low quality 3mb (Windows Media Video)

click to view high quality 109mb (mp4)
click to view low quality 26mb (flash)

click to download high quality zip file
click to download low quality zip file"


Please select the day which your country appears.

December 14th
Algeria, Egypt, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

click to login

December 15th
Austria, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Norway, Poland, Russia and Switzerland.

December 16th
Argentina & Paraguay, India, Italy, Mexico, Peru, Philippines, Portugal, Spain and Venezuela.


December 17th
Hong Kong, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan,Thailand.

New Product Launch

Wednesday 9 December 2009

What the ProtecT study has taught us to date

A view point on the UK ProtecT Study from the USA and 'The “New” Prostate Cancer InfoLink',of interest:

What the ProtecT study has taught us to date


Other Websites of interest:

ProtecT Study (Prostate testing for cancer and Treatment)

Boost For Prostate Cancer Screening - Report Shows Mortality Reduction As High As 31%

Article Date: 09 Dec 2009

The effectiveness of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) screening on reducing prostate cancer mortality has been given a boost with new data from the European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (ERSPC). This shows the true impact to be far higher than previously reported up to 31%.

Preliminary ERSPC findings showed that screening reduced prostate cancer deaths by 20%. This latest ERSPC analysis corrects for non-attendance and contamination to assess the effectiveness of PSA testing in those men actually screened

From 1992, the ERSPC study randomized 162,000 men, aged 55 to 69, in seven European countries to either a screening arm or a control group. Those screened were given a blood test to detect PSA levels: if it was 3.0ng/ml or more, they were offered a biopsy. Screening took place on average every four years. Mean follow-up was nine years.

In any randomized trial, some in the screening arm do not attend and some in the control group inadvertently receive a PSA test (contamination). Contamination makes it difficult to detect differences. This is believed to be one reason why the Prostate Lung, Colon and Ovarian (PLCO) study failed to detect any significant reduction in mortality.

PSA cut off level of 3ng/ml is safer threshold for reducing biopsies

Using retrospective data from the Dutch arm, the ERSPC has shown that using a screening algorithm - an individual risk assessment - alongside PSA testing can reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies. PSA testing is sensitive but not specific, so elevated levels do not necessarily imply cancer. Approximately 30% of detected cancers are non-aggressive - 'indolent' or slow growing.

Their findings, published in January 2010's European Urology suggest that a PSA cut off level of 3ng/ml combined with an individual risk assessment would reduce biopsies by 33%. The majority of cancers potentially missed would be indolent, so there would be no benefit from active treatment. Increasing the PSA cut-off level from 3 to 4 ng/ml may save a similar number of biopsies, but will miss more clinically significant cancers.

Source: European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer

Boost For Prostate Cancer Screening - Report Shows Mortality Reduction As High As 31%

Wednesday 2 December 2009

Prostate Cancer International

There are some interesting videos on the PCI Youtube channel.




Prostate Cancer International

Monday 30 November 2009

PCA3 Research Centre (Uro Today)

This site offers a collection of PCA3 research publications.

PCA3 Research Centre

Limitations of Active Surveillance in Young Men with Prostate Cancer

This is an interesting view point from William J. Catalona which I believe is taken from this years Annual meeting of the AUA back in August.

Limitations of Active Surveillance in Young Men with Prostate Cancer

Sunday 29 November 2009

What’s Killing Darcus Howe

I missed this documentary but I'll highlight it anyway.

The True Stories strand, a showcase for the best international and domestic feature documentaries, presents What's Killing Darcus Howe?, which follows an extraordinary six months in the life of the legendary veteran firebrand Darcus Howe as he attempts to raise awareness of a disease which affects one in four black men.

Darcus decides to kick off his grass roots campaign with Mickey, the son of Leo - one of Darcus' friends who recently died of the disease. Can Darcus persuade Mickey to put aside his macho Essex-boy attitudes and take a test that could save his life? Despite being the most common male cancer, many men are reluctant to take prostate cancer seriously; perhaps the embarrassing and dreaded rectal examination is to blame?

Frustrated and angered that so many of his old friends are dying from what he calls 'the silent killer', Darcus is determined to rally against the authorities who he feels are letting black men down by failing to raise awareness. However, what starts as a campaign to put prostate cancer on the map, quickly turns into a bitter and at times explosive racial clash between Darcus and Asian director Krishnendu Majumdar - two very different generations with very different racial politics.

For four decades, Darcus Howe has been one of Britain's most prominent race campaigners dedicatedly fighting the authorities in the name of racial equality and, for him, prostate cancer is part of the bigger battle for racial equality. Krishnendu sees things differently. Meeting black men, he feels that their attitude is part of the problem and becomes determined to convince Darcus that black men need to take more responsibility for their own health.

What’s Killing Darcus Howe
Further information




25 November 2009

The Prostate Cancer Charity comments on ‘What’s Killing Darcus Howe?’

The Prostate Cancer Charity comments on the issues raised in the More 4 documentary, What’s Killing Darcus Howe, which follows the efforts of broadcaster Darcus Howe as he seeks to raise awareness of prostate cancer amongst the African Caribbean community.

John Neate, Chief Executive of The Prostate Cancer Charity, explains: “It is excellent to see that issues surrounding the African Caribbean community and their awareness of prostate cancer have become a topic for debate. This programme is important in helping to shape our understanding and raise awareness of the inequalities surrounding the African Caribbean community and prostate cancer.

“We know that African Caribbean men are three times more likely to develop prostate cancer and that they are diagnosed on average five years younger than white men. This strongly demonstrates the need for continuing work to raise awareness of the higher risk of prostate cancer in black men and is a key area of work for The Prostate Cancer Charity. It is evident that the current situation – in which many African Caribbean men are unaware of their increased risk of developing the disease – cannot continue.

“Our own awareness raising work in the African Caribbean community has shown that prostate cancer remains an unspoken disease – surrounded by myth and taboo with many men embarrassed to discuss it. This is an area of continuing concern for the Charity and we would encourage all men to visit their GP if they are experiencing any possible symptoms of prostate cancer such as problems when urinating.

“At present, very little is known about why awareness levels in the African Caribbean community are so low, when compared with white men. We would like to see further research investigating why these levels are so low to help us understand how we can better meet the needs of those most at risk from the disease,” he added.

The Prostate Cancer Charity comments on ‘What’s Killing Darcus Howe?’

Thursday 19 November 2009

Pudendal Nerve Terminal Motor Latency Testing

Hmmmm,I've never heard of this test so will add a few links to hopefully enlighten me and anyone else who wishes to know.

This website appears to give detailed information on everything to do with the actual Pudendal Nerve:

The Pudendal Nerve


The link below will take you to a site concentrating on Anatomical Images:

Anatomical Images


Think this last link gives a good overall account of the basics and also has a Community Forum which may or may not be of interest:

Welcome to Pudendal.info

Anorectal Manometry

Might be a good idea to explain or inform what Anorectal manometry is all about.Click on the link at BOP for a pdf that gives a good explanation.

What is anorectal manometry?

Anorectal manometry is a test performed to evaluate patients with constipation or fecal incontinence.

This test measures the pressures of the anal sphincter muscles,the sensation in the rectum, and the neural reflexes that are needed for normal bowel movements.

Patient Information on Anorectal Manometry

Mediwatch Training Courses-Updates

Anorectal Manometry & Pudendal Nerve Terminal Motor Latency Testing

4th December 2009 with further dates to follow for 2010

Anorectal Manometry & Pudendal Nerve Terminal Motor Latency Testing





Urodynamics Training courses

This will be the third batch of Urodynamic Training Courses,the first of which commenced earlier this year.

Urodynamics Training courses



Below is a link to the Mediwatch webpage listing the above courses:

USA Support/Service

Monday 9 November 2009

Today in the San Francisco Chronicle

This is taken from the "New" Prostate Cancer InfoLink and their view on an article.

InfoLink view:

"Most prostate cancer activists (and certainly those on the West Coast) will want to be aware of an “OpEd” into today’s issue of the San Francisco Chronicle. The OpEd says it is by Laura Esserman, MD, but the credits suggest that actually it is by Dr. Esserman in conjunction with Ian Thompson, MD, the co-authors of a recent review on controversies related to prostate and breast cancer screening and related actions.

The “New” Prostate Cancer InfoLink is in complete agreement with the authors when they state categorically that, “We are not proposing that we stop all screening; we are saying that we can and must do better.”"

Today in the San Francisco Chronicle

The Article:

OPEN FORUM: On prostate cancer screening
By Laura Esserman

As cancer surgeons, we witness the fear and anxiety we create when we tell patients that they may have cancer. This fear is understandable, as cancer can be a deadly disease. Choices for therapy can be overwhelming and treatments emotionally and physically taxing. We want to use all of the tools at our disposal to minimize the impact of cancer and maximize the chance of a good outcome. Screening for cancer is one such tool, but it needs to be used wisely, and the results interpreted carefully.

We recently published an analysis (JAMA Oct 21, 2009) of the impact of current screening for breast and prostate cancer and found significant room for improvement. Screening has led to an increase in cancers detected, many of which are not life threatening, and we haven't been as successful as we had hoped in preventing more advanced stage cancers. We are not proposing that we stop all screening; we are saying that we can and must do better.

Screening is complex because cancer is complex. Not all breast cancers or prostate cancers behave the same, and as a result, some people benefit more than others from screening. Screening is most effective for moderate to slow-growing tumors or where removing a precancerous condition prevents the disease, as in cervical cancer and colon cancer. For fast-growing or very aggressive tumors, traditional screening may not be able to help, as these types of tumors pose significant risk even when they are small and seem curable. For very slow growing tumors, finding them early will not make much if any difference.

For both breast and prostate cancer, we have substantially increased the chance of being diagnosed with a slow-growing tumor that might never have come to attention in the absence of screening, leading people to think they have a killer cancer when they do not. In this situation, we may be doing harm and creating anxiety, which often leads to more aggressive treatment choices. The more we (public and physicians) are aware of the limitations of mammography and PSA testing, the better we can tailor screening recommendations, use the results of screening wisely and provide more appropriate options for our patients.

Importantly, we propose a strategy for moving forward. First, we must focus on understanding who is at risk for developing the most aggressive cancers and test targeted new drugs to improve treatment and prevention. We also must be aware that the most aggressive cancers can turn up as masses or high PSA's between normal screens, and not ignore symptoms just because there has been a recent normal screening test.

Second, we need to use the tools available (and develop new ones) for determining the aggressiveness of cancers at the time of diagnosis. This will help patients and physicians have conversations weighing the risks and benefits of interventions, and lead to new trials designed to help some patients safely forgo treatment.

Third, we need to think more about prevention. Our concept of screening should include the use of tools that identify how much risk a person has for developing cancer. For prostate cancer, tools like the online Prostate Cancer Risk Calculator, predicts not only the risk of cancer, but the risk for high grade disease. When high, prevention interventions, such as finasteride, should be discussed, not just PSA screening. For breast cancer there are a number of risk models that we can use today to help patients and physicians think about the available medical and surgical prevention options as well as intensive and more frequent surveillance for those at highest risk.

We can also use risk assessment tools to identify people unlikely to benefit from screening; we should avoid screening them. In women over 70, for example, there is no evidence that mammographic screening saves lives, as such women most often develop less aggressive or IDLE tumors. Our advice to women in this age group is to continue to do breast exams, and to seek care if they find a lump. Men, and their physicians, can turn to the prostate cancer risk calculator to inform their decision about whether to get a PSA test as well.

Finally, we need a concerted national effort to invest in large scale long-term studies and demonstration projects that accelerate the pace of learning about screening and prevention. We will all welcome the day when screening and treatment options are more tailored and effective and fewer women and men have to face the phrase, "you may have cancer".

Dealing with the complexities of screening honestly will lead to more options for our patients and make care better tomorrow than it is today.

Laura Esserman M.D., is a professor of surgery and radiology at UCSF. Ian Thompson, M.D., is a professor of urology at the University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio.

OPEN FORUM: On prostate cancer screening

Issue of Equity

Mediwatch plc (AIM: MDW, "Mediwatch" or the "Company"), the innovative urological diagnostic company, has raised £347,440 (approximately £332,000 net of expenses) by way of a cash placing of 6,042,430 new ordinary shares ("Placing Shares") at 5.75 pence per share (together the "Placing").

Use of funds

Proceeds from the Placing will be used to fund working capital and to finance four feasibility studies for new opportunities which Mediwatch has identified to support its international growth plans. These are:

To work with an international corporation on a joint venture, sharing technology and pursuing a common marketing campaign.

A project with a different international medical company, assessing the potential of using its technology with Mediwatch's bioassays.

A marketing opportunity with a biomedical company to promote its point-of-care system alongside the Mediwatch PSA system for assessment of urological problems.

Licensing a bladder cancer marker from a different bioscience company and to conduct a research project using that marker with the Mediwatch BioScan reader system.


The Placing Shares have been subscribed for by certain institutional shareholders of the Company and by all Directors of the Company. The Directors have subscribed for a total of 501,000 Placing Shares. Their resultant shareholdings are set out below:




Director
Original Shareholding
Placing Shares subscribed for
Resultant shareholding
% of the issued share capital of the Company

Charles Cattaneo
720,000
120,000
840,000
0.60

Colm Croskery
705,282
121,740
827,022
0.59

Mark Emberton
2,380,528
34,780
2,415,308
1.73

Omer Karim
9,051,214
173,920
9,225,134
6.60

Christian Rollins
62,591
55,770
118,361
0.08

Philip Stimpson
20,675,438
173,920
20,849,358
14.92

The Placing Shares will represent 4.32 per cent of the issued ordinary share capital of the Company as enlarged by the Placing and the total number of voting shares in issue immediately following admission to trading on AIM will be 139,713,502.


Application will be made to the London Stock Exchange plc for the Placing Shares to be admitted to trading on AIM and it is expected that admission will take place on 13 November 2009. The Placing Shares will rank pari passu in all respects with the Company's existing ordinary shares of 1p each.


Philip Stimpson, Mediwatch Chief Executive said:

"We have identified four opportunities, each of which - if successful - will enable us to extend our range of offerings in the international urology market in different ways. While we are unable to provide details at this stage, each is exciting in its own right and will help us to achieve our aim of providing a "one-stop" system of urological diagnostic equipment for the international healthcare market."

Issue of Equity

Tuesday 3 November 2009

Making Sense of Screening, by Sense About Science

I've added 'The Prostate Cancer Charity' comments on this report under this weeks News section.

Overall this new report should be of interest to just about everyone and is very informative.

Making Sense of Screening, by Sense About Science

The Prostate Cancer section found on page 13 is a bit of a disappointment in my opinion,relating to the screening issue but mostly the general feeling put over.

I don't know whether Peter Furness comments have been taken out of context but they appear aimed at scaring a man from taking an initial PSA test which is wrong,in my view:

"Peter Furness:

About two-thirds of men with raised PSA levels turn out not to have prostate cancer; but they have to go through a battery of further tests including rectal examinations, transrectal ultrasounds and prostate biopsies, which involves inserting a large needle into the prostate via the rectum, typically 12 times. The biopsy is painful and carries a small risk of serious infection."

I'm all for making the patient aware of the limitations of the PSA test but within a general screening report the above comments are unwelcome,in my opinion.

A PSA test should be carried out along with a "rectal examinations" (DRE) especially on any initial testing,in my opinion.

From what I could see there was no reference to 'watchful waiting' or 'Active Surveillance' which are other options but of course they don't come under the heading of 'screening' which is also the case for transrectal ultrasounds and prostate biopsies.

I disagree strongly with this separate comment if related to Prostate Cancer:

"Diseases, such as fast growing cancers, which progress rapidly are unlikely to be suitable for screening. The individual is likely to become symptomatic between screening tests and seek medical attention."

The comment above is based on a scenario of a screening program already set-up (the way I read it) so what happens if there is no screening program (as is the case today,in the UK)?

One case that I know about springs directly to mind is a man (late 60's) who had back pain who went to the doctor and after a couple of months of various tests they carried out a PSA test,the results were sky high and he was given a year to live,lasted about two and a half years with medication.

My view is that every man should be entitled to a free PSA test/DRE at any age and once a year,if the PSA test comes back high (not sky high) then do two more before any further invasive tests are carried out.Also from my research the GP must tell the patient what he mustn't do before a PSA test for example sex/ejaculating 48 hours prior.

In reference to should there be a screening program set up in the UK then yes would be my answer but if not financially viable along with the limitations of the PSA test which can't be questioned (but all we have at the present time)then greater public awareness campaigns would achieve the same objective without the 'screening program' label.

Sorry,it became a rant!

FUTURE EVENTS AND LATEST NEWS (Updated 8th October)

BAUN Conference 2009 (2nd-4th November)Mediwatch attending/exhibiting

Female Urology and Voiding Dysfunction (6th-7th November)Mediwatch attending/exhibiting

2nd European Multidisciplinary Meeting on Urological Cancers (EMUC) from 27 to 29 November 2009



STUFF THAT MAYBE DID BUT NOW
DOESN'T FIT IN WITH THE TITLE...


Mediwatch Interim Results for the six month ended 30 April 2009

Five year global distribution agreement secured with Inverness Medical Innovations-16 March 2009

Preliminary Results for the year ended 31 October 2008-Issued 26 January 2009




Monday 2 November 2009

UK-Special supplement in The Times

Sorry,a bit late.

29 October 2009
Special supplement in The Times highlights prostate cancer

For the second year running Raconteur Media has produced a special supplement, in collaboration with The Prostate Cancer Charity, to help to raise awareness of the disease.

The 16-page supplement, which was distributed in The Times newspaper today (Wednesday 29 October) focused on all aspects of prostate cancer, from research to treatment options and personal testimonies on the emotional impact of the disease.

Released almost one year on from the inaugural supplement, which was distributed to 1.8 million people, the publication coincides with the launch of Movember campaign, the global sponsored moustache-growing event, which raises awareness of men’s health issues and raises money for The Prostate Cancer Charity in the UK.

Max Clifford, a keen and much-valued Ambassador of The Prostate Cancer Charity, was interviewed for the supplement, speaking of his personal experiences of prostate cancer, as well as his desire to raise awareness of men’s right to ask their GP for a PSA test.
Max, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in December 2007, said: “What I find is that men die of embarrassment. They don’t talk about these things. This kind of cancer affects more men in the UK than any other and for that reason alone all men should be aware that they have a right to have a PSA test.”

Andy and Joanne Christie, supporters of the Charity, have also spoken about their experience with the disease, sharing valuable insights into how a couple can face a diagnosis of prostate cancer together.

Funded solely by advertising, the independent publication written by leading health journalist, Roger Dobson, also featured a host of experts on prostate cancer discussing issues surrounding the disease.

John Neate, Chief Executive of The Prostate Cancer Charity, said: “People are becoming increasingly aware of prostate cancer. They are often shocked at the scale of the disease and there is growing momentum in challenging the inequity surrounding the disease. As such, prostate cancer is finally on the agenda, but this is no time for complacency. We must continue and intensify our fight against prostate cancer – through research, support, infromation and campaigning – until we ultimately win this war. It has been fabulous working with Raconteur for the second year running to help spread awareness of prostate cancer.”

Henrik Kanekrans, of Raconteur Media, said: “The second-year of our partnership with The Prostate Cancer Charity has been highly successful, and the collaboration between our organisations has resulted in a professional and substantial supplement of which we can all be proud. The profile of prostate cancer is on the rise, and the supplement offers information and support options for men and their families who might need it.”

The supplement has already generated a wealth of calls to the Charity’s Helpline from men and women wanting to know more about prostate cancer.

Special supplement in The Times highlights prostate cancer

The Times Supplement

NEWS-Week Ending 8th November(Updated-3 Posts)

The Prostate Cancer Charity comments on the launch of a new guide to screening UK-3rd November

Faulty prostate cancer test alert(Nothing to do with Mediwatch) UK-3rd November

Study Shows How Differing Asian Cultures And Attitudes Impact Cancer Screening Rates USA-2nd November

Welcome to Movember South Africa, 2009

Movember South Africa will raise funds and awareness for CANSA

Spread the message - detect men’s cancers early

All men should invest in their health by learning how to detect men’s cancers early - The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) encourages men to be proactive by regular self-examination and having Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood tests.

Men from age 15 to 40 years of age need to examine their testicles each month, preferably after a bath or shower, to feel for any pea-sized lumps that could indicate testicular cancer. Men over the age of 50 need to go for simple screening tests each year to check if they might have prostate cancer, which is the most common cancer among men in South Africa and globally. The lifetime risk for men developing prostate cancer in South Africa is one in 23.

Help fight cancer by supporting Movember and grow your Mo to spread the message to detect men’s cancers early. Funds raised will go towards CANSA’s Men’s Health and awareness campaigns.

CANSA’s purpose is to lead the fight against cancer in South Africa to save lives.

So, submit your email address and get ready to grow your finest South African Mo! Or, why not get a team together in your workplace, sporting club or friends and compete for the finest Mo and most funds raised?

Movember South Africa, 2009

It's Movember!




Movember Global


The Movember Foundation is a global non-profit organization that is responsible for running the Movember event each year. The Movember event raises awareness around men's health issues and funds for carefully selected charitable beneficiary partners including The Prostate Cancer Charity.

While Movember is relatively new in the UK, it started in Melbourne, Australia in 2003 as a challenge to bring back the moustache. In 2004 the campaign evolved to become a fundraising event for prostate cancer, raising AUD$55,000 for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. Since then Movember has expanded globally, having raised more than £30 million for its beneficiary partners in Australia, New Zealand, UK, US, Canada, Spain and Ireland. As a direct result of these campaigns, men's awareness of health issues has improved with the campaign spreading health messages directly to millions around the world.

The Movember Foundation’s head office is based in Melbourne, where the idea for Movember was first conceived. Movember now has additional offices located in America and Europe.

Movember Foundation Official Site


As the FDA are taking their time giving PSAWATCH their approval they can go at bottom :-)

Tuesday 27 October 2009

UK Charity - UCARE

I must have missed this UK charity specialising in urological cancers and hope they don't mind appearing in this here blog.I will of course add them to the main page found under the month of April under General,Urology and Charity Websites section.




Welcome

UCARE (Urology Cancer Research and Education) supports cancer research projects in Oxford that are taking a leading role in the global fight against cancer.

UCARE (Urology Cancer Research and Education) is a charity founded by a group of clinicians, patients and supporters who care about fighting urological cancers. Our aim is to improve the treatment and care of cancer patients through research and education.


What is urological cancer?

Urological cancer is cancer that affects the kidney, bladder, prostate, testicles or penis.

Our vision

Finding new ways to fight cancer.

Our aims

To support research into the causes, prevention and treatment of urological cancers and related conditions.

To promote the development of new technologies that will help to improve the diagnosis and treatment of urological cancers and related conditions.

To provide equipment and facilities for research, and for the treatment of cancer patients.

To provide information and education about urological cancers.

UCARE

NEWS-Week Ending 31st October (Updated-5 Posts)

James L. Mohler: Advent of PSA test has improved survival rates USA-29th October

Pints for prostates: One man's beer battle against cancer USA-30th October

Dennis Hopper's prostate cancer diagnosis reminds men to get checked USA-30th October

Musicians tune up to back cancer charity UCARE UK-27th October

Taking it off for a good cause USA-27th October

Saturday 24 October 2009

AUA-Evidence Based Reviews in Urology (EBRU)

Evidence Based Reviews in Urology (EBRU)

Evidence Based Reviews in Urology (EBRU) is a new program by the American Urological Association (AUA) that will be launched in October of 2010 to teach practicing urologists and residents-in-training critical appraisal skills. Evidence based medicine related knowledge and skills will be taught in the context of an online journal club that will feature eight published articles per academic year (October – May). These articles are selected because they highlight important methodological issues as they relate to studies of therapy, prognosis, diagnosis, harm, etiology/risk, costs and resource utilization and because they are of high relevance to the day-to-day practice of urology.

Participants are asked to critically appraise the clinical article in a structured format using additional EBM review articles as a guide. Following an online group discussion, reviews by a clinical and methodological expert will be posted. After completion of the EBRU program, participants will have the knowledge and skills to critically appraise the urological literature. They will also be familiar with some of most important recently published clinical research findings to guide their practice.

EBRU is provided to all members of the AUA free of charge. It provides a convenient, practical and interactive way for busy urologists to learn critical appraisal skills and increase their clinical knowledge. EBRU also provides an opportunity to discuss common urological problems with other AUA members across the globe including recognized experts that will lead the group discussion. A similar program by the American College of Surgeons has been demonstrated to be an effective and fun way for general surgeons to acquire critical appraisal skills. EBRU participants can claim CME credit by completing a monthly online evaluation form as well as an end of the year post-test.

Further details about this exciting new offering from the AUA Office of Education will be forthcoming.

Evidence Based Reviews in Urology (EBRU)

Sunday 18 October 2009

Mediwatch-Fundamentals of Urodynamics Workshop

This is the fourth 'Fundamentals of Urodynamics Workshop' that Mediwatch have sponsered within the USA this year and starts 22nd to 23rd of October with the last one 3rd to 4th December.

Mediwatch-Fundamentals of Urodynamics Workshop

Saturday 17 October 2009

BAUN–Prostate Cancer Study Day(9th December 2009)




A FREE study day aimed at urology and oncology nurses working in both the community and the acute sector, as well as nursing professionals with an interest in the management & treatment of prostate cancers.

BAUN–Prostate Cancer Study Day(9th December 2009)

NEWS-Week Ending 18th October

Auckland City Mayor Shows Support for Movember New Zealand-16th October

Thursday 15 October 2009

Men living in Scotland needed to help raise awareness of prostate cancer

8 October 2009

Men and their families affected by prostate cancer living in Scotland are being urged to join forces and take part in a pioneering awareness raising service to be launched on the east coast of Scotland.

The Prostate Cancer Charity’s Scotland team is looking for people who have been personally affected by the disease to get involved and help raise awareness of prostate cancer in their local communities, by hosting Charity information stands and giving talks about their experiences.

Suzy Mercer, Head of Scotland Operations for The Prostate Cancer Charity, explains: “Despite being one of the most common cancers in men in Scotland, for many people prostate cancer is still surrounded by myth and taboo. Hearing about prostate cancer directly from someone who has been affected by it is a really powerful way of spreading awareness of the disease and our volunteers are a vital part of this unique service – without them we can’t deliver it.”

“Until recently we have only been able to deliver this service in the west of Scotland, but now we are looking for people to help us expand our service to reach people in Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife, Tayside and Perth and Kinross.”

Rob Pearson, 61, a retired engineer, from Dunfermline, was diagnosed with prostate cancer nine years ago after a routine health check revealed there could be a problem with his prostate. After being successfully treated for the disease, Rob decided to volunteer for The Prostate Cancer Charity and has travelled across the country to give talks about the disease and his experience of it.

He said: “When I was diagnosed I knew very little about prostate cancer even though two of my work colleagues had been treated for it. When I retired I decided I wanted to do something positive and use my own experience of the disease to help make other men and their families more aware of the fact that prostate cancer isn’t just something that happens to other people and when the Charity launched its Scottish awareness raising service I jumped at the chance to get involved.

“While the idea of getting up and talking to a room full of strangers can be daunting for some, it is wonderful to know that you are helping to empower men and their families to be more aware of their health.”

The Prostate Cancer Charity is hoping to recruit 15 new volunteers by November to help it deliver its out reach programme across Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife, Tayside and Perth and Kinross.

“All of our volunteers are people affected by prostate cancer and they are the experts in what it is like to live with the disease; our volunteers are vital in helping us to reach out and explain the facts about prostate cancer. You don’t need to have any specific skills to join us, you just need to be happy to talk. I hope many people will sign up and help us continue to reach out to men and their families across Scotland,” Mercer added.

All volunteers will be given training and ongoing support from the Charity. The next training sessions are running in Fife this November.

Men living in Scotland needed to help raise awareness of prostate cancer

Tuesday 13 October 2009

(UK) Mediwatch-Life Science Graduates - Sales

Life Science Graduates - Sales
Salary: competitive depending on experience

Location: Nationwide

This job is closed

Description:

Graduates
Nationwide

A leading Urological Diagnostics company, Mediwatch UK Ltd, is seeking to employ Life Science Graduates in a number of geographical locations throughout the UK.

Selling direct to the NHS and private sectors, you will be a self starter and highly motivated to create and grow business.

We will be holding a Graduate Open Day on Friday 16th October (10.30 – 4.30) at our Rugby headquarters, which will include individual interviews. If you are selected to attend the open day we will advise you and forward full details via e-mail.

Full product and sales training provided.

Closing date for applications Friday 9th October. Only applicants eligible to work in the UK will be considered - no recruitment agencies

Skills Required: Not Specified

Life Science Graduates - Sales

Sunday 11 October 2009

Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates (SUNA) 2009 Annual Conference-2nd to 5th October

A bit after the event,sorry.

Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates (SUNA) 2009 Annual Conference-2nd to 5th October


View the 2009 Brochure


Mediwatch are Corporate Members of SUNA:

Mediwatch PLC
1501 Northpoint Parkway Suite 103
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
Telephone: 888-471-2611
Web site: www.Mediwatch.com

Mediwatch are manufacturers and suppliers of high-technology urology products for the screening, diagnosis and assessment of a variety of clinical disorders. We focus on innovation in point-of-care devices, enabling clinicians to make rapid and efficient decisions.

Our range of diagnostic devices for urology includes:

Sensic Clinic
Complete urodynamics system, with Pressure-flow and UPP studies built in, and optional video cystometry. Also available with the well-established Duet Logic software.

Sensic Portable
Portable, small footprint system designed for clinicians with multiple sites to cover, or a restricted working area.

Duet Encompass urodynamics systems
Advanced urodynamics systems offering Anorectal manometry, Neuro-urodynamics, simple Biofeedback and cavernosometry

Portascan+ & Multiscan PVR
Portable and user-friendly real-time visual automatic bladder scanner
Designed for post-void residuals and use in concert with a urodynamics system

Urodyn 1000 and Portaflow uroflow devices
Spinning disc or weight-cell flowrate measurement

New Portaflow Advanced
Uroflow measurement system with Bluetooth connection to a Windows laptop

Urodynamic Consumables
A complete range including water & air charged catheters, EMG electrodes and pump tubing sets

EMR Connectivity
Three levels of communication with EMR systems via HL7 are available.

SUNA Corporate Member

FUTURE EVENTS AND LATEST NEWS

Oooooops,a bit late!

The Western Section of the American Urological Association-2009 Annual Meeting-25th to 29th October

Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates (SUNA) 2009 Annual Conference-2nd to 5th October



STUFF THAT MAYBE DID BUT NOW
DOESN'T FIT IN WITH THE TITLE...


Mediwatch Interim Results for the six month ended 30 April 2009

Five year global distribution agreement secured with Inverness Medical Innovations-16 March 2009

Preliminary Results for the year ended 31 October 2008-Issued 26 January 2009




Diagnostics - Doctor, doctor, is this a good investment?

There are other companies mentioned but I've just highlighted Mediwatch:

Article published 24th Sep by valueinvestor

Mention healthcare stocks and most investors will be looking at biotech for the best returns – make-or-break companies which will strike it rich if their drugs under development get through the FDA approval process. Income investors know the appeal of Astrazeneca and Glaxosmithkline, huge pharmaceutical companies with massive portfolios of relatively mature drugs.

Neither as risky as biotech tiddlers, nor as boring as the big drugmakers, the healthcare equipment stocks are stuck in the middle – and don't get a lot of attention. But they can get the same kind of growth rates as the biotechs – while several of them have the kind of earnings record that would make a big-pharma finance director nod in approval.

This week saw news that one in six NHS patients suffer misdiagnosis [1] . While technology can't solve every health problem, diagnostic technology has become increasingly accurate – and cheap; so I thought it would be a good time to take a look at some of the diagnostics stocks. There are quite a few.

Diagnostics appears to be relatively resilient in tough economic times. Testing is increasingly seen as a way to help manage healthcare costs, by identifying diseases early and addressing them before major intervention is required.

I particularly like the fact that some of these companies are establishing good barriers to entry. That's something Warren Buffett always looks for – he calls it a 'moat' around the company – and it could help the companies sustain their competitive advantage in the long term, which isn't always possible with drugs. Once the company has its equipment in the surgery, its future revenue stream of diagnostic tests is safeguarded, as it's not economically sensible to change the system

There are also opportunities for cross-selling new products using the same equipment at the point of care.


Another diagnostic company which looks like a potential fast growth stock is Mediwatch, a urological specialist. It was founded by CEO Philip Stimpson in 1996, and markets a prostate cancer diagnostic system, PSAWatch, for which it has now signed a global distribution agreement with US major, Inverness Medical Innovations. Its point-of-care product has real advantages against lab tests – results take 10 minutes rather than 3 days to arrive, and it's cheaper to use. That makes Mediwatch a possible beneficiary of cost cutting programmes in healthcare, rather than a likely victim.

The year to October 2008 saw Mediwatch increase its revenue by 64%, but more importantly make a profit of £408,000 against a loss of £256,000 the year before. It also saw positive cash flow – no longer burning cash as it had done the previous year [7] . Brokers' forecasts are for £620,000 pretax profit in 2009, growing to £1.2m in 2010 [8] – the shares trade on 22x historic earnings, but look much more realistically valued on a prospective basis.

Diagnostics - Doctor, doctor, is this a good investment?

New Position-(Senior) Research & Development Scientist

(Senior) Research & Development Scientist

Job Role: Biomedical Sciences, Immunology
Job Hours: Full-Time
Sector: Industry
Location: Bedfordshire
Company: Mediwatch UK Ltd
Salary:
Posted Date: 30 September 2009 15:33:31
(Senior) Research & Development Scientist

Mediwatch Biomedical Ltd (a division of Mediwatch Plc) develop a portfolio of products for application in the point-of-care environment.

We wish to appoint a biosciences graduate to join the development team. The successful candidate will provide expertise in immunoassay development and optimisation, maintenance of documents in line with regulatory requirements and new technology development.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual with more than two years industrial R&D experience in the areas of immunoassay design, disease biomarkers, product development and assisting with regulatory approvals. A strong interest in scientific and technological developments is desirable. Knowledge and experience of nucleic acid techniques would be a distinct advantage, but not essential. PhD or ability to work at this level preferred.

Candidates should be a project orientated team player and posses the personal drive to complete projects with demanding timescales. Well developed problem solving skills and an entrepreneurial outlook are essential for you to succeed in this role.

Only candidates that are eligible to work in the UK will be considered – no recruitment agencies.

Applicants should forward their CVs including salary expectations and a covering letter stating their experience and career goals to the postal address in the contact details below

or email by clicking the "Apply Now" button.

Closing date for applications is 30th October 2009.

(Senior) Research & Development Scientist

Tuesday 29 September 2009

Prostate cancer tests from 40,say experts(Australia)

23 September 2009

Australian men should begin routine testing for prostate cancer from age 40 to boost rates of early detection and help to reduce deaths, experts say.

The Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand (USANZ) has reduced the age at which it recommends men have their first Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test, by 10 years.

USANZ president Dr David Malouf said the move followed a review of the latest research into the cancer, which is now diagnosed in 10 men under the age of 50 every week in Australia and New Zealand.

"If we continue to wait until men are 50 before being tested, we will miss some with prostate cancer who could have been identified much earlier, monitored by their GPs and urologists and received timely appropriate advice and treatment," Dr Malouf said.

"These men have a better prognosis if they are picked up earlier."The blood test for prostate cancer checks the level of a protein which is otherwise part of a man's ejaculatory fluid.

Elevated levels of this protein in a man's blood indicates the prostate, which produces it, is not working properly, possibly caused by cancer.Men with a PSA level higher than 0.6 at age 40 were considered to be at high risk of developing the cancer, or above 0.7 in men over 50.

"There is now strong evidence that having a baseline PSA test at age 40 is a smart move which can help determine whether a man is in a low risk or high risk category," Dr Malouf said.

USANZ announced its revised PSA test recommendation for Australian men at an event in Sydney.Dr Malouf said there was firm data that PSA testing reduced the risk of men being diagnosed with the cancer in its advanced stage, and that treatment at an early stage reduced the risk of death.

A family history of the cancer can also indicate a man faces a higher risk.

Prostate cancer tests from 40,say experts"

Younger men urged to have prostate cancer test (Australia)

Meredith Griffiths reported this story on Wednesday, September 23, 2009 08:21:00

TONY EASTLEY: Prostate cancer kills more than 3,000 Australian men every year. The conventional wisdom has always been that if there's no family history of the disease, men don't really need to worry about it until after they're 50, but urologists have changed their mind and they now want all men over 40 to be tested.

Meredith Griffiths reports.

MEREDITH GRIFFITHS: When Ross Jefferey was in his early 40s, prostate cancer was far from his mind.

ROSS JEFFEREY: I had a vague awareness about prostate cancer as being something that typically affects old men and you know I knew that in the 50s you should be starting to talk to your doctor about it, but not as a 45, 46 year old, it wasn't on my radar.

MEREDITH GRIFFITHS: So he was shocked when his 46-year-old brother was diagnosed with the disease.

ROSS JEFFEREY: He was going for a knee operation and his GP said, well we'll do the usual round of blood tests beforehand, and amongst that was a PSA test that popped up as being high, and after a biopsy he found himself having an operation to remove his prostate which was found to be cancerous.

MEREDITH GRIFFITHS: PSA is the measure by which doctors gauge a man's risk of getting prostate cancer. Regular blood tests over the next two years showed that Ross Jefferey's PSA levels were getting higher and in 2007 he had surgery to remove cancer.

Dr David Malouf says Mr Jefferey is just one of about 500 men under the age of 50 to be diagnosed with prostate cancer each year in Australia and New Zealand.

DAVID MALOUF: Forty-eight-year-old men dying of prostate cancer, 54-year-old men dying of prostate cancer. We know that those men, if their cancer had been picked up five, 10 or even 15 years earlier the vast majority of those men who are incurable at diagnosis could have been identified earlier, could have been treated and cured.

MEREDITH GRIFFITHS: Dr Malouf is the president of the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand which is now recommending that men get tested for prostate cancer once they turn 40.

DAVID MALOUF: The age of 50 has been the accepted wisdom for at least 10 or 15 years, but based upon a couple of studies which have matured over the last 12 months, we know that an early PSA test at the age of 40 is a predictor of a man's subsequent risk of prostate cancer.

MEREDITH GRIFFITHS: Men simply have to go to their GPs and Dr Malouf says there's no doubt that changing the policy will save lives.

DAVID MALOUF: For the vast majority of men at 40, their PSA test will be very, very low and they can be reassured that their risk of prostate cancer is low and they can have much lower frequency of testing. However for a small group of men, their PSA will be in a higher range and they will need to be more carefully monitored.

TONY EASTLEY: The president of The Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand, Dr David Malouf, the reporter Meredith Griffiths.

Younger men urged to have prostate cancer test

ICS Annual Meeting 29 Sept - 3rd Oct.

ICS Annual Meeting

Saturday 26 September 2009

(UK)The Prostate Cancer Charity’s first TV commercial

Better late than never:

The Prostate Cancer Charity’s first TV commercial was screened on Saturday night during the coverage of the Tour of Britain highlights on ITV4.

The ad has been developed to help raise awareness of prostate cancer and of The Prostate Cancer Charity’s Helpline which people can contact for information and support. The Charity is extremely happy to have this opportunity, as part of the Tour of Britain partnership, to raise awareness with such a large, well-suited audience. The ITV4 programme is watched by over 300,000 people - mainly men over 40.

BBC sports presenter (former Sheffield Wednesday striker) Mark Bright lent his voice to the advert which uses a ‘stick-man’ to simplify the complexity of the issues surrounding prostate cancer and to help lighten the subject so that men feel comfortable considering and talking about prostate cancer. We certainly hope that it will encourage anyone out there with any concerns to come forward and get in touch with The Prostate Cancer Charity.

Wednesday 23 September 2009

AUGS 30th Annual Scientific Meeting (Updated-26th Sept.)

AUGS 30th Annual Scientific Meeting
September 24-26, 2009

Westin Diplomat Resort, Hollywood, FL

Join AUGS as we celebrate 30 years of Annual Scientific Meetings during the 2009 Annual Scientific Meeting in Hollywood, Florida! Learn the latest from female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery experts while taking advantage of multiple networking opportunities with others who share your interest in urogynecology and female urology. From exciting events that support the AUGS Foundation to enriching education sessions, the AUGS 30th Annual Scientific Meeting offers something for everyone!

AUGS 30th Annual Scientific Meeting


Pelvic Floor Disorders Will Impact as Many
as One-Third of All Women in 2050

Tuesday 22 September 2009

NEWS-Week Ending 27th September(Updated-2 Posts)

'Check at 40' for prostate cancer New Zealand-24th September

Carefully weighing the options Canada-22nd September

Johnny Ramone

I never realised that Johnny Ramone died after a five year battle against Prostate Cancer back in 2004:

Johnny Ramone


And the reason for the post:

Johnny Ramone Fans Will Party In The Cemtery
Fans will pay tribute to the late Johnny Ramone by partying in a cemetery next month.

LOS ANGELES (September 21, 2009)--Fans will pay tribute to Johnny Ramone of The Ramones by partying next month in a cemetery.

Tommy and CJ Ramone will be part of the celebration of Johnny's life on Oct. 3 at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles.

The party includes a showing of the 1977 Ramones concert film "It's Alive" on the mausoleum wall, as well as a screening of Johnny's favorite movie, "Night of the Living Dead."

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Johnny Ramone Research Fund at USC Westside Prostate Cancer Center.

Johnny Ramone Fans Will Party In The Cemtery

Wednesday 16 September 2009

NFL Season Kicks Off with Campaign to “Know Your Stats about Prostate Cancer



While most men might know the stats of their favorite NFL player, they are likely unaware of other important statistics that could one day save their lives. As a result, the American Urological Association (AUA) Foundation and the National Football League (NFL) are teaming to encourage men to “Know Your Stats about Prostate Cancer,” the second leading cause of cancer death for American men. Men and their loved ones can visit www.KnowYourStats.org for information about prostate cancer and where to find free or low-cost screening locations.

One in every six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime. To fight this deadly disease, the American Urological Association (AUA)has issued new guidelines recommending that men 40 and older talk with their doctors about prostate cancer testing. A physical exam and simple blood test to establish a baseline PSA (prostate-specific antigen) score today could help save a life later.

“We encourage men to be as passionate about their health as they are about their favorite NFL teams and players,” said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.

The relationship between the AUA Foundation and the NFL began in 2007 when the NFL Player Care Foundation began implementing prostate cancer screenings conducted by the AUA Foundation. The NFL Player Care Foundation was created in 2007 to address health and quality of life issues encountered by retired players.

To promote September’s Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 27 retired NFL Hall of Fame players recorded a public service announcement to urge men to get tested for prostate cancer. Led by Hall of Famer and prostate cancer survivor Michael Haynes, the message also features football legends, or “Team Haynes” members, including Tony Dorsett, Anthony Munoz, “Mean” Joe Greene, upcoming “Dancing with the Stars” contestant Michael Irvin and more.

Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in males in the United States, killing more than 28,000 men in 2008. African-American men and men with a family history are at a higher risk for developing prostate cancer, with African-American men more than twice as likely to die from the disease.

“Men should talk with their doctors so they can make informed decisions about prostate cancer testing,” said Robert S. Waldbaum, M.D., F.A.C.S, and AUA Foundation spokesperson. “Knowing your stats empowers patients and their doctors with the facts to make informed decisions.”


NFL great Mike Haynes is one of the many men who have benefitted from early detection due to prostate cancer testing. Before his diagnosis through a free NFL Player Care Foundation screening conducted by the AUA Foundation, prostate cancer was the last thing on Haynes’ mind. Now a prostate cancer survivor, Haynes is speaking out, in partnership with the NFL and the AUA Foundation, encouraging men to talk to their doctors.

“Before I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I never knew I was at risk for this disease. Now I know how important it is to play defense against prostate cancer and to start getting tested at 40,” says Haynes. “A simple test saved my life.”

The AUA Foundation will continue to work with the NFL Player Care Foundation to screen retired players across the country and encourage fans to get in the game where their health is concerned.

What You Should Know, or Share with the Men in Your Life, About Prostate Cancer:


Prostate defense starts at 40. Talk with your doctor about prostate cancer testing.
o The American Urological Association recommends that men ages 40 and older talk with their doctor about prostate cancer testing including the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and a simple physical exam.
o Knowing your score today could help save your life later. Establishing a baseline PSA score at age 40 can help doctors better interpret your future PSA scores.
Know Your Stats – and don’t let prostate cancer take you out of the game. Visit www.knowyourstats.orgto learn more.

About Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is most treatable when caught early. The American Urological Association recently revised its guidelines to recommend men get a baseline PSA test at age 40 and talk with their doctors to create a prostate health plan based on lifestyle and family history. The future risk of prostate cancer is closely related to a man’s PSA score, and men who are screened at age 40 establish a baseline score that can be tracked over time.

NFL Season Kicks Off with Campaign to “Know Your Stats about Prostate Cancer

Monday 14 September 2009

NEWS-Week Ending 20th September(Updated-8 posts)

The Japanese Guideline For Prostate Cancer Screening Japan-19th September

Men Diagnosed With Prostate Cancer In Recent Years Have Better Survival Outcomes,Study Shows USA-18th September

"The Depend Campaign to End Prostate Cancer" Brings Sports Legends Together to Celebrate National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month Canada and the USA-17th September

Tour of Britain:Unite by cycling for Prostate Cancer Charity UK-17th September

Prostate cancer ranks as No.1 killer of men in Arizona USA-16th September

Beaches100 hopes to get word out on cancer USA-15th September

Early detection is key to surviving prostate cancer USA-15th September

'Watchful Waiting' Is A Viable Option For Prostate Cancer Patients With Low-risk Tumors, Study Finds USA-14th September

More evidence that deferring treatment can work just fine

Concrete evidence that, for many appropriately selected men, deferred treatment may be a better choice than invasive treatment continues to accumulate. While there is still no category 1 evidence from a large, randomized clinical trial, a newly published article examined data on the management of prostate cancer patients enrolled in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study — a prospective study of 51,529 men.

Shappley et al. calculated the hazard ratios (HRs) for time to eventual treatment among men who deferred treatment for more than 1 year after diagnosis. The HRs for time to metastasis or death as a result of prostate cancer were then compared between patients who deferred treatment and those who underwent immediate treatment within 1 year of diagnosis. The results of their analysis are as follows:

3,331/51,529 cohort participants (6.5 percent) were diagnosed with prostate cancer between 1986 and 2007.

342/3,331 patient (10.3 percent) initially deferred treatment.

174/342 patients who deferred treatment (51 percent) remained untreated throughout follow-up (mean 7.7 years).

168/342 patients who deferred treatment (49 percent) were treated an average of 3.9 years after diagnosis.

Factors associated with progression to treatment among DT patients included younger age, higher clinical stage, higher Gleason score, and higher PSA level at diagnosis.
The rates for development of metastases were similar between the deferred treatment and the early treatment groups.

In the deferred treatment group, 20/342 patients progressed to metastatic disease at a rate of 7.2 per 1,000 person-years.

In the early treatment group, 199/2,989 patients progressed to metastatic disease at a rate of 8.1 per 1,000 person-years.

The rates for prostate cancer-specific death were also similar between the two groups.
In the deferred treatment group, 8/342 patients died of prostate cancer at a rate of 2.4 per 1,000 person-years.

In the early treatment group, 80/2,989 patients died of prostate cancer at a rate of 2.6 per 1,000 person-years.

While this study was not conducted as a randomized trial, and while there was no specific protocol being followed by patients who chose to defer treatment, three clear conclusions can be drawn from this community setting-based, national study:

> 50 percent of the men who opted for deferred treatment went without treatment for 7.7 years after diagnosis.

Older men, and men with lesser cancer severity at diagnosis, were more likely to remain untreated.

Prostate cancer mortality did not differ between patients who received deferred as compared to early forms of treatment.

The “New” Prostate Cancer InfoLink is increasingly convinced that we need national guidelines for both the selection of patients who are suitable for deferral of treatment and for the management of such patients based on their type. Active surveillance of some type certainly seems to be wise for those patients in whom curative intervention may still be needed (i.e., patients who have long life expectancies and with a rising PSA) but more conservative forms of management, with deliberate avoidance of excessive biopsying, may be more suitable for men with shorter life expectancies and early stage, low risk disease.

More evidence that deferring treatment can work just fine

The Impact of Cancer In Cameroon(Updated 16th September)

"February 01, 2009: ARA Champions the fight against Cancer in Cameroon

ARA has signed an agreement with the Cameroon National Cancer Control program to sensitize/educate Cameroonians on Cancer and Cancer prevention, and provide Palliative care to Cancer patients in Cameroon."

"According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a cancer epidemic is brewing in Africa.

There is no cancer treatment available in many regions for the 650,000 documented Africans who develop cancer annually, resulting in about 510,000 deaths —almost 80% of all cancer cases in Africa. By 2020 Africa will account for more than one million new cancer cases a year, and they are the least able of all developing countries to cope, having few cancer care services.

1 Lack of resources and basic infrastructure means that most Africans have no access to cancer screening, early diagnosis, treatment or palliative care.

2 In fact according to the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) millions of cancer victims in developing countries lack access to life-saving radiotherapy and other forms of treatment, with at least $2.5 billion needed to provide adequate treatment facilities, half to purchase machines, and half to train the physicians and physicists required to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Life-saving radiotherapy is available in only 21 of Africa’s 53 countries, or to less than 20% of the population, and consequently cancer is often a sentence to a painful and distressing death. Also, basic, epidemiologic and interventional research are relevant to caring for cancer patients, and each can, at least in principle, be carried out in Africa. Yet research capacity, mentorship and resources are lacking. Even more disheartening is that over one third of cancer deaths are due to preventable causes such as viral infection, poor nutrition and widespread tobacco use. Breast Cancer and Uterine Cancer are the most prevalent in Cameroonin women(about 33% and 24 %, respectively). In men, prostate cancer and liver cancer dominate."



"Cameroon has only two Cancer treatment centers. University of Yaounde I, Cameroon is the leading university in Cameroon and harbors one of the 2 Cancer treatment centers. For a population of over 16 million, one medical physicist, 10 pathologists and 3 cytotechnicians.

Cancer surveillance is not well organized in Cameroon. Most cancer related deaths are neither reported nor recorded. The majority of cancer patients go for consultation only at an advanced stage of the disease. Ignorance, local beliefs and poverty influence the behavior of patients.

Traditional healers, medical and paramedical staff who, for financial or other reasons, insist on treating cancer patients even though they lack the required expertise, thus delay referral to the limited facilities. The limited number of personnel trained in oncology is further compounded by the lack of enthusiasm on the part of young medical officers and nursing staff for oncology. These limiting factors confirm the urgency of getting assistance for the cancer control program in Cameroon by empowering the university of Yaounde I.

The political will to reverse the current trend of affairs is in no doubt. This political commitment is evidenced by the provision for cancer control in the National Health Development Program, its inclusion in the Health Sector Strategy, the re-organization of the National Cancer Control Committee (NCCC) as well as the appointment of its officials."

ARA Champions the fight against Cancer in Cameroon

Prostate Cancer in Cameroon


I have added Cameroon to the main database found under the month of April under the title of Global Health

Europe-Urology Week - organised on 14 and 15 September 2009

- Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Western world.

- Every year 346,000 new cases of prostate cancer are detected in Europe alone.

- More than 50% of men over 50 have urological complaints due to benign conditions.

- Epidemiologic data indicate that erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant problem among men worldwide. As many as 42.8 million men are expected to suffer from ED in Europe alone in 2025.

Just a few facts about urological conditions, which affect the lives of millions of men and women every day. Shame and undetected symptoms are among the key reasons why many Europeans neglect to seek medical help when experiencing urological complaints. And that is too bad, since often there is help available.

Urology Week - organised on 14 and 15 September 2009 - is a tool with which the European Association of Urology (EAU), the European knowledge centre of urology in Arnhem, wishes to stimulate people over 50 to visit their doctors when they suffer from such complaints..

The EAU has selected prostate conditions and erectile dysfunction to be the key themes of Urology Week. We seek to create more awareness of urological conditions and the work of the urologist among the European public, especially those over 50, since they are the ones who suffer from these conditions most. The organisation cooperates closely with Europa UOMO, a European advocacy movement for the fight against prostate cancer, and other specialist and patient organisations at a European level.

Europe-Urology Week

Sunday 13 September 2009

September-Music/Film Selection(Updated-16th)

Thought I'd inflict some music and film clips that I like,for anyone reading this blog.I'll make it a monthly event so be warned-lol.

Clasical

Joan Sutherland sings The Bohemian Girl


Blues

Big Bill Broonzy Live 1956 Part 1

Big Bill Broonzy Live 1956 Part 2


Bluegrass/folk

David Holt and Doc Watson: Shady Grove

A clip from a festival that's sadly no more:
Edale Blugrass Festival 94

Popular

The Velvet Undergound & Nico - Femme Fatale

Films

dr. strangelove-survival plan

PCRI holds annual prostate cancer gathering

Over 600 attendees gathered in Los Angeles at the annual educational forum of the Prostate Cancer Research Institute (PCRI) this weekend to hear from a broad spectrum of speakers on current trends in research and clinical practice.

The meeting moderator, Mark Moyad, MD, from the University of Michigan, was somewhat distracted by a critical season-opening football game — but was smiling broadly by the time he delivered his highly entertaining but still serious address at the gala dinner on Saturday night.

There were a number of excellent presentation during the course of Saturday, particularly by David Heber, MD, of the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition (”Inhibiting cancer with diet”), John Mulhall, MD, of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (”Erectile dysfunction”), and Charles “Snuffy” Myers, MD (”Second line hormone blockade”). Drs. Mulhall and Myers must have answered hundreds of questions from individual attendees before the day was done.

At the gala dinner, the second annual Harry Pinchot Award was given to Lyle LaRoach, the president of the Informed Prostate Cancer Support Group (IPCSG) in San Diego. Lyle expressed his great honor at being only the second recipient of this award, and expressed the hope that this would help to give added stature to the IPCSG across San Diego County.

Prostate Cancer International has been working with PCRI at this meeting to expand its initial series of brief video interviews, Let’s Talk About Prostate Cancer, and PCRI has itself been recording all of the presentations given by faculty at this meeting. We hope to have all materials up on line within a few weeks.

PCRI holds annual prostate cancer gathering