This site offers a collection of PCA3 research publications.
PCA3 Research Centre
Monday 30 November 2009
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
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?’
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
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
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
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 16 November 2009
November-Music/Film Selection
As a tribute to Edward Woodward:
Edward Woodward: A life in clipsThe Guardian
Edward Woodward sings(Morecambe and Wise Show)
A good a time as any for one of my top 100 songs:
Edward Woodward: A life in clipsThe Guardian
Edward Woodward sings(Morecambe and Wise Show)
A good a time as any for one of my top 100 songs:
Friday 13 November 2009
NEWS-Week Ending 15th November(Updated-2 Posts)
Medicines to Deter Some Cancers Are Not Taken USA-13th November
Top US sitcom writer dies aged 75 USA-13th November
Top US sitcom writer dies aged 75 USA-13th November
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
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
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!
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
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
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)
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
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 :-)
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