Copied from The "New" Prostate Cancer InfoLink website (Posted on May 30,2010):
It is probably fair to say that readers should expect little in the way of revolutionary new information affecting the management of prostate cancer from this year’s annual meeting of the American Urological Association (AUA). However, what already appears to be evident is a continuing evolution in thinking, particularly with respect to how physicians can best discriminate between patients with low-risk, early stage, potentially indolent forms of the disease and those with higher-risk forms of prostate cancer and how to manage the lower-risk patients.
The UroToday web site has already provided commentaries on a number of sessions from the meeting of the Society of Urologic Oncologists that was held on Saturday, and rather than provide a “repeat” of that commentary, we recommend that interested readers link directly to the UroToday web site, where summaries are provided of the following presentations and discussions:
•A session on the role of imaging agents in the diagnosis and management of prostate cancer and other genitourinary cancers, with particular emphasis of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), new metabolic imaging approaches, and new agents to enhance the capabilities of PET scanning.
•A session on our expanding understanding about the role of the androgen receptor in prostate cancer, and the development of new forms of treatment based on androgen receptor blockade.
•A pro/con discussion of the value of screening for prostate cancer, with the “pro” screening position presented by Dr. Peter Scardino and the “con” position taken by Dr. Otis Brawley. It is noteworthy that during this session Dr. Brawley stated (to the surprise of the session moderator and most of the audience) that he would offer PSA testing to a 43-year-old, African-American male at an office visit.
•A pro/con discussion of the use of active surveillance as a management strategy for selected patients at low- and very low-risk of clinically significant disease, with the “pro” position taken by Dr. Ballentine Carter and the “con” position taken by Dr. William Catalona.
•A pro/con discussion of the value of 5α-reductase inhibitors (5ARIs) in the prevention of prostate cancer and the detection of patients with higher-risk disease, with the “pro” position taken by Dr. Gerald Andriole and the “con” position by Dr. Patrick Walsh.
Several of these topics evoke very strong opinions within differing segments of the urology community, and it is not surprising, therefore, that the messages delivered to patients and to men at differing risk levels for prostate cancer can be contradictory and confusing.
What The “New” Prostate Cancer InfoLink is hearing in these discussions, however, is a continuing transition from the “absolutist” positions of the 1990s (that anyone with cancer in their prostate who is under 75 should be treated immediately) to a newer and more nuanced attempt to better characterize the individual risk of each patient and then a willingness to help that patient make management decisions that “work” emotionally and clinically for each individual patient.
In that context, one very clear position was expressed by Dr. Joel Nelson of the University of Pittsburgh. Speaking at a course on prostate cancer management on Sunday morning, Dr. Nelson was blunt in saying that he now considered it to be utterly inappropriate for any low-risk patient to be given hormonal therapy as a first-line treatment for prostate cancer. He stated that — at least in his opinion — the data clearly showed, today, that treating such patients in this way did nothing to extend the metastasis-free or prostate cancer-specific survival of low-risk patients. In fact, what it clearly does do is increase the risk of earlier mortality in such patients as a consequence of the side effects of therapy. Dr. Nelson concluded his presentation on the management of patients with low-risk prostate cancer with a clear exhortation to the audience to “first, do no harm” and an emphasis on the importance of “treating the whole patient” rather than just managing the patients PSA level. This is a mindset with which The “New” Prostate Cancer InfoLink is in complete agreement
AUA annual meeting opens in San Francisco
Monday 31 May 2010
Tuesday 25 May 2010
PSAwatch – Trials and Evaluations
Taken from the last Mediwatch newsletter:
Momentum is building fast behind PSAwatch.
Like any new medical device, PSAwatch needs multiple sources of independent evidence.
And this evidence needs to be locally relevant to support local market sales.
We therefore have the following current evaluations and trials underway:
• 800 patient trial in Italy
• 300 patient trial in China
• 300 patient evaluation in UK for use in the community
• 200 patient trial in UK as POCT to screen out unnecessary prostrate biopsies
• 6 site, 300 patient trial in France
• Ongoing FDA trials in UK and USA
• Evaluation by lead PSA government laboratories in UK,France and Germany
Other trials and evaluations are under discussion in Australia and the UK.
Taken together, this will give us an impressive and wide range of data, allowing us to provide clinical decision-makers with clear evidence to support PSAwatch use.
Donna Cochrane
Technical Product Specialist
Mediwatch Newsletter
A reminder from the 16th March 2009:
Five year global distribution agreement secured with Inverness Medical Innovations
Mediwatch plc (“Mediwatch” or “the Company”, AIM: MDW), the innovative urological diagnostic company, has signed a five-year agreement for the worldwide distribution of PSAwatch, its flagship point-of-care total PSA measuring system for prostate cancer, with Inverness Medical Innovations, Inc. (“Inverness”, NYSE: IMA) a leading provider of near-patient diagnostics, monitoring and health management solutions.
This is a very important and substantial distribution agreement for Mediwatch as Inverness has an extensive global sales-force which will complement Mediwatch’s own worldwide distribution network and provide the Company with considerably more market reach. Inverness is recognised as a market leader with significant expertise in marketing point-of-care tests, which they already manufacture for other pathological conditions.
Prostate cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths with 670,000 men worldwide diagnosed with it annually. Approximately 10,000 men die every year in the UK from prostate cancer with over 34,000 diagnosed with the disease (Source: Cancer Research UK). There are 60 million PSA tests globally with PSAwatch the first quantitative, point-of-care PSA test in this £300 million market. It uses the Mediwatch Bioscan reader and therefore does not require laboratories.
Philip Stimpson, Mediwatch Chief Executive commented’
“We are confident that this strategically important distribution agreement will deliver a significant revenue stream. The market for point of care diagnostics is growing rapidly as a result of a combination of; the population aging, growth of local clinics, home testing and the need for faster, cheaper, more portable and easier to use medical equipment.
“This is a significant development for Mediwatch as it means we can both actively promote worldwide the early diagnosis of prostate cancer, with portable rapid-testing equipment. This is particularly poignant and gratifying for us, being a British company, as this is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in the UK.”
Enquiries
Mediwatch +44 (0)1788 547888
Philip Stimpson, Chief Executive
Fairfax I.S. PLC +44 (0)20 7598 5368
Ewan Leggat / Laura Littley
College Hill +44 (0)20 7457 2020
Adrian Duffield / Justine Lamond
Editor’s Notes
Mediwatch plc: Innovative Diagnostic Solutions
Mediwatch is a leader in its field. The Company is continually striving to develop and market faster, simpler and less invasive diagnostic products to save lives and restore quality of life for people with a variety of urological conditions. Founded in 1995, Mediwatch (www.mediwatch.com) has developed a range of point-of-care medical equipment for the diagnosis of urological disorders.
The business focuses its design skills towards diagnostic products that can be used across the medical profession.
PSAwatch was developed to measure PSA (prostate specific antigen) in blood or plasma and was the first rapid, quantitative, point-of-care PSA test. Blood levels of PSA are used to diagnose or monitor both benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) disease of the prostate.
PSAwatch, the quantitative point-of-care diagnostic test, is now being sold in the UK and European markets. Having obtained Investigator Review Board (IRB) approval in August 2008, the Group is well advanced with clinical trials being held both in the UK and the US for regulatory approval.
Mediwatch has established excellent foundations for continued growth building on the acquisition and integration of a division of Medtronic Inc in 2007, an international distribution network, the expansion into pathology services via Bostwick Laboratories and its research and development programmes.
In the year ended 31 October 2008 the Group continued its significant growth trend with record results with revenues increasing 64% to £9.3 million. The Group has maintained its focus on improvements to its existing portfolio as well as developing new products.
Based in Rugby, UK, the Group employs 61 personnel across the group, of which 18 are involved in sales & marketing and 10 in R&D.
Inverness Medical Innovations, Inc.
By developing new capabilities in near-patient diagnosis, monitoring and health management, Inverness Medical Innovations enables individuals to take charge of improving their health and quality of life. A global leader in rapid point-of-care diagnostics, Inverness’ products, as well as its new product development efforts, focus on infectious disease, cardiology, oncology, drugs of abuse and women’s health. Inverness is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts.
For additional information on Inverness Medical Innovations, please visit www.invernessmedical.com.
http://www.mediwatch.com/NewsDetail.php?news=true&articleId=134
Momentum is building fast behind PSAwatch.
Like any new medical device, PSAwatch needs multiple sources of independent evidence.
And this evidence needs to be locally relevant to support local market sales.
We therefore have the following current evaluations and trials underway:
• 800 patient trial in Italy
• 300 patient trial in China
• 300 patient evaluation in UK for use in the community
• 200 patient trial in UK as POCT to screen out unnecessary prostrate biopsies
• 6 site, 300 patient trial in France
• Ongoing FDA trials in UK and USA
• Evaluation by lead PSA government laboratories in UK,France and Germany
Other trials and evaluations are under discussion in Australia and the UK.
Taken together, this will give us an impressive and wide range of data, allowing us to provide clinical decision-makers with clear evidence to support PSAwatch use.
Donna Cochrane
Technical Product Specialist
Mediwatch Newsletter
A reminder from the 16th March 2009:
Five year global distribution agreement secured with Inverness Medical Innovations
Mediwatch plc (“Mediwatch” or “the Company”, AIM: MDW), the innovative urological diagnostic company, has signed a five-year agreement for the worldwide distribution of PSAwatch, its flagship point-of-care total PSA measuring system for prostate cancer, with Inverness Medical Innovations, Inc. (“Inverness”, NYSE: IMA) a leading provider of near-patient diagnostics, monitoring and health management solutions.
This is a very important and substantial distribution agreement for Mediwatch as Inverness has an extensive global sales-force which will complement Mediwatch’s own worldwide distribution network and provide the Company with considerably more market reach. Inverness is recognised as a market leader with significant expertise in marketing point-of-care tests, which they already manufacture for other pathological conditions.
Prostate cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths with 670,000 men worldwide diagnosed with it annually. Approximately 10,000 men die every year in the UK from prostate cancer with over 34,000 diagnosed with the disease (Source: Cancer Research UK). There are 60 million PSA tests globally with PSAwatch the first quantitative, point-of-care PSA test in this £300 million market. It uses the Mediwatch Bioscan reader and therefore does not require laboratories.
Philip Stimpson, Mediwatch Chief Executive commented’
“We are confident that this strategically important distribution agreement will deliver a significant revenue stream. The market for point of care diagnostics is growing rapidly as a result of a combination of; the population aging, growth of local clinics, home testing and the need for faster, cheaper, more portable and easier to use medical equipment.
“This is a significant development for Mediwatch as it means we can both actively promote worldwide the early diagnosis of prostate cancer, with portable rapid-testing equipment. This is particularly poignant and gratifying for us, being a British company, as this is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in the UK.”
Enquiries
Mediwatch +44 (0)1788 547888
Philip Stimpson, Chief Executive
Fairfax I.S. PLC +44 (0)20 7598 5368
Ewan Leggat / Laura Littley
College Hill +44 (0)20 7457 2020
Adrian Duffield / Justine Lamond
Editor’s Notes
Mediwatch plc: Innovative Diagnostic Solutions
Mediwatch is a leader in its field. The Company is continually striving to develop and market faster, simpler and less invasive diagnostic products to save lives and restore quality of life for people with a variety of urological conditions. Founded in 1995, Mediwatch (www.mediwatch.com) has developed a range of point-of-care medical equipment for the diagnosis of urological disorders.
The business focuses its design skills towards diagnostic products that can be used across the medical profession.
PSAwatch was developed to measure PSA (prostate specific antigen) in blood or plasma and was the first rapid, quantitative, point-of-care PSA test. Blood levels of PSA are used to diagnose or monitor both benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) disease of the prostate.
PSAwatch, the quantitative point-of-care diagnostic test, is now being sold in the UK and European markets. Having obtained Investigator Review Board (IRB) approval in August 2008, the Group is well advanced with clinical trials being held both in the UK and the US for regulatory approval.
Mediwatch has established excellent foundations for continued growth building on the acquisition and integration of a division of Medtronic Inc in 2007, an international distribution network, the expansion into pathology services via Bostwick Laboratories and its research and development programmes.
In the year ended 31 October 2008 the Group continued its significant growth trend with record results with revenues increasing 64% to £9.3 million. The Group has maintained its focus on improvements to its existing portfolio as well as developing new products.
Based in Rugby, UK, the Group employs 61 personnel across the group, of which 18 are involved in sales & marketing and 10 in R&D.
Inverness Medical Innovations, Inc.
By developing new capabilities in near-patient diagnosis, monitoring and health management, Inverness Medical Innovations enables individuals to take charge of improving their health and quality of life. A global leader in rapid point-of-care diagnostics, Inverness’ products, as well as its new product development efforts, focus on infectious disease, cardiology, oncology, drugs of abuse and women’s health. Inverness is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts.
For additional information on Inverness Medical Innovations, please visit www.invernessmedical.com.
http://www.mediwatch.com/NewsDetail.php?news=true&articleId=134
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia-Latest News
Star-studded campaign drives better prostate cancer awareness
Some of Australia’s biggest TV, music, media and sports stars have come together to front a major prostate cancer awareness campaign that offers men clarity about prostate cancer and testing. The campaign has been developed to provide men with clear advice on prostate cancer risk by encouraging men to discuss their individual risk and testing options with their doctor.
Well-respected actors, musicians, sportsmen and media commentators including Bert Newton, Steve Waugh, Gyton Grantley, Kirk Pengilly, Adam Spencer, Simon Westaway, and Marcus Graham, have dedicated their time to appear in a series of television commercials, radio commercials and online videos with the aim of reducing confusion some men feel about prostate cancer and prostate cancer testing. The television commercials were developed by award winning director, Paul Middleditch, of Plaza Films and Josh Whiteman, of The Host Agency. The campaign was shot entirely at The Wiggles Studios, in Sydney and edited by Peter Whitmore, of The Editors.
The driving force for the community awareness campaign was Underbelly and Rescue: Special Ops star Les Hill who personally felt Australian men needed to be further educated about the severity of prostate cancer.
“I was absolutely taken back when I realised that every three hours a man dies as a direct result of prostate cancer. We are talking about thousands of men losing their lives each year when prostate cancer can be treated and cured if detected early,” said Mr Hill.
“The support we have received from people in the sport and entertainment industries has been astounding, and if we are able to at least let men know that all it takes is a chat to your doctor, then we would have already made a difference in our community.”
The campaign has been launched as new research shows the majority of men recognise prostate cancer as the most important men’s health issue (83%), but are seeking further information about the benefits of testing for prostate cancer risks and treatment options.
A survey1 conducted by PCFA found that almost half (40%) of the men surveyed believed the advice given on the benefits of testing for prostate cancer was far too confusing. The survey also found that 41% felt conflicted about treatment options for the disease following a diagnosis.
PCFA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Andrew Giles, says we should be committed to educating not only men but the general public on the risks of prostate cancer.
Early detection is the key to enabling better outcomes and potential cure of prostate cancer. Accordingly, PCFA recommends that men at 50 with no family history of prostate cancer, and men at 40 with a family history, should discuss prostate cancer and assess their personal risk each year with their doctor. If deemed necessary, a combination of both a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test and a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) is recommended.
“Testing for prostate cancer should be viewed and discussed at an individual level, PCFA recommends that men talk to their doctors about their individual risk of prostate cancer. As the national peak body, we will continue to support this message in the hope to alleviate the uncertainty around testing and treatment,” said Mr Giles.
Star-studded campaign drives better prostate cancer awareness
Just a reminder......
Might be a good idea to give a list of links to highlight some of the main posts relating to Mediwatch/Urology that are found under the month of April 2009.....also a reminder for me to check for bad links and add any updates:
MEDIWATCH-A SYNOPSIS
GENERAL,UROLOGY and CHARITY WEBSITES
THE MEDIWATCH RANGE
DISTRIBUTORS FOR MEDIWATCH PRODUCTS
MEDIWATCH-THE PROMOTION OF...
UROLOGY
DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND
URODYNAMICS INFORMATION
POINT OF CARE BIOCHEMISTRY
PCA3 INFORMATION
GLOBAL HEALTH
PSAwatch-IN ACTION!
NURSE LED CLINICS/MOBILE CLINICS
MEDIWATCH-A SYNOPSIS
GENERAL,UROLOGY and CHARITY WEBSITES
THE MEDIWATCH RANGE
DISTRIBUTORS FOR MEDIWATCH PRODUCTS
MEDIWATCH-THE PROMOTION OF...
UROLOGY
DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND
URODYNAMICS INFORMATION
POINT OF CARE BIOCHEMISTRY
PCA3 INFORMATION
GLOBAL HEALTH
PSAwatch-IN ACTION!
NURSE LED CLINICS/MOBILE CLINICS
Public service announcement for the Prostate Cancer Foundation.
A bit late with this:
Why Can't Men Be More Like Women?
Famed sports figures Vida Blue and Rosey Grier promote early detection for prostate cancer in new public service announcement
SANTA MONICA, CA/April 29, 2010—
Sports legends Vida Blue and Rosey Grier have teamed up in a new public service announcement to raise awareness for early detection of prostate cancer in men. Produced to hit the airwaves in time for the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s (PCF) annual Home Run Challenge with Major League Baseball in June, the spot depicts a group of men sitting around knitting and doing needlepoint while discussing their latest prostate exam results.
“This spot delivers an important message with humor and will capture the attention of both men and their women,” said Dave Perron, vice president of PCF’s baseball and sports enterprises. “We know women are more proactive when it comes to managing their health and talk openly about these issues. Many men avoid these topics. They put off their annual exams and screenings. We hope this spot will spur, perhaps even challenge, many into action.”
Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in America, affecting 1 in 6 men. In 2009, more than 192,000 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer, and more than 27,000 men died from the disease. One new case occurs every 2.7 minutes and a man dies from prostate cancer every 19 minutes. It is estimated that there are more than 2 million American men currently living with prostate cancer.
“Every man has the right to know if he has cancer,” said Jonathan W. Simons, MD, president and CEO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation. “And right now, the PSA test and an informed discussion with their doctor are the best tools men have for an early diagnosis when available treatments are most effective. We are grateful to Vida Blue and Rosey Grier for supporting this important message.”
Entitled Knitting Circle, the public service announcement may be viewed on PCF’s website and on YouTube.
The public service announcement was produced with partial pro bono services from Teak Digital, a full service production, post-production, motion graphics and interactive house based in San Francisco. Distribution of the spot will be provided as a public service by Horizon Media Inc., FOX Television and FOX Sports, Viacom and NBC Universal.
Why Can't Men Be More Like Women?
Famed sports figures Vida Blue and Rosey Grier promote early detection for prostate cancer in new public service announcement
SANTA MONICA, CA/April 29, 2010—
Sports legends Vida Blue and Rosey Grier have teamed up in a new public service announcement to raise awareness for early detection of prostate cancer in men. Produced to hit the airwaves in time for the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s (PCF) annual Home Run Challenge with Major League Baseball in June, the spot depicts a group of men sitting around knitting and doing needlepoint while discussing their latest prostate exam results.
“This spot delivers an important message with humor and will capture the attention of both men and their women,” said Dave Perron, vice president of PCF’s baseball and sports enterprises. “We know women are more proactive when it comes to managing their health and talk openly about these issues. Many men avoid these topics. They put off their annual exams and screenings. We hope this spot will spur, perhaps even challenge, many into action.”
Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in America, affecting 1 in 6 men. In 2009, more than 192,000 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer, and more than 27,000 men died from the disease. One new case occurs every 2.7 minutes and a man dies from prostate cancer every 19 minutes. It is estimated that there are more than 2 million American men currently living with prostate cancer.
“Every man has the right to know if he has cancer,” said Jonathan W. Simons, MD, president and CEO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation. “And right now, the PSA test and an informed discussion with their doctor are the best tools men have for an early diagnosis when available treatments are most effective. We are grateful to Vida Blue and Rosey Grier for supporting this important message.”
Entitled Knitting Circle, the public service announcement may be viewed on PCF’s website and on YouTube.
The public service announcement was produced with partial pro bono services from Teak Digital, a full service production, post-production, motion graphics and interactive house based in San Francisco. Distribution of the spot will be provided as a public service by Horizon Media Inc., FOX Television and FOX Sports, Viacom and NBC Universal.
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Day (June 19th 2010)
Worth highlighting this event now and will repeat next month................
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Day takes place on the 19th June 2010.
Brought to you by The X Foundation, in association with the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation and the Prostate Cancer Support Federation, National Prostate Cancer Awareness Day will be held on June 19th 2010 (the day before Father's Day in the UK). To mark this special day, we are launching a brand new annual event, The Great Drag Race.
The Federation has been invited to participate in, and benefit from, this event, sharing the profits equally with the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation. We are aware that some of our members have reservations about the wisdom of this event, but at the same time, others are strongly in favour of it, as a novel and entertaining way of raising both awareness and money. The Federation will very much welcome the monies raised, and applaud the higher profile in the public's awareness of the disease that we hope will result.
What is The Great Drag Race?
It's a spectacular new annual event that aims to radically increase the public's awareness of prostate cancer. A thousand men of all shapes and sizes will descend on London Fields, where they will each walk or run for 10.2km wearing a wig and a frock in order to drag the issue into the spotlight. That's one long stride for each of the 10,200 men who will die of the disease this year.
Why “drag”?
Why is it that breast cancer, which kills 12,000 women in the UK every year, gets ten times the attention that prostate cancer gets, when the latter kills almost as many men? Maybe it's just that prostate cancer is seen by many to be a disease that affects an unknown part of the body, of unknown function, which 'only' old men suffer from; whereas, we all know about women's breasts, and it's so sad to see so many young women cut down in their prime from that awful disease.
But, whatever the reason, it's a gross inequality, made worse by double standards when arguments for and against screening are considered.
The Great Drag Race is a lighthearted and entertaining way of drawing attention to this disgraceful state of affairs. It will provide a platform for men to show that they have issues, too, even if they have to dress up as women to talk about them! All participants will be asked to raise money for the two prostate cancer charities (Prostate Cancer Research Foundation and the Prostate Cancer Support Federation) via online sponsorship pages, and they will be required to wear flamboyant female clothing for the duration of the march. It's that simple.
The X Foundation's film crew is currently following ten brave men living with prostate cancer as they spend three months training to become drag queens in order to promote Prostate Cancer Awareness Day and The Great Drag Race in the most funny and flamboyant way possible. Here is a 3-minute teaser for the documentary.
The Great Drag Race will begin and end in London Fields, and is open to men of all ages and abilities. Although the distance is 10.2km, we want the support of everyone brave enough to take part, even if they can only manage the final ten yards. To help celebrate our achievements, there will be celebrities, guest performances, and an after-party for all our participants and their friends and families..
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Day takes place on the 19th June 2010.
Brought to you by The X Foundation, in association with the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation and the Prostate Cancer Support Federation, National Prostate Cancer Awareness Day will be held on June 19th 2010 (the day before Father's Day in the UK). To mark this special day, we are launching a brand new annual event, The Great Drag Race.
The Federation has been invited to participate in, and benefit from, this event, sharing the profits equally with the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation. We are aware that some of our members have reservations about the wisdom of this event, but at the same time, others are strongly in favour of it, as a novel and entertaining way of raising both awareness and money. The Federation will very much welcome the monies raised, and applaud the higher profile in the public's awareness of the disease that we hope will result.
What is The Great Drag Race?
It's a spectacular new annual event that aims to radically increase the public's awareness of prostate cancer. A thousand men of all shapes and sizes will descend on London Fields, where they will each walk or run for 10.2km wearing a wig and a frock in order to drag the issue into the spotlight. That's one long stride for each of the 10,200 men who will die of the disease this year.
Why “drag”?
Why is it that breast cancer, which kills 12,000 women in the UK every year, gets ten times the attention that prostate cancer gets, when the latter kills almost as many men? Maybe it's just that prostate cancer is seen by many to be a disease that affects an unknown part of the body, of unknown function, which 'only' old men suffer from; whereas, we all know about women's breasts, and it's so sad to see so many young women cut down in their prime from that awful disease.
But, whatever the reason, it's a gross inequality, made worse by double standards when arguments for and against screening are considered.
The Great Drag Race is a lighthearted and entertaining way of drawing attention to this disgraceful state of affairs. It will provide a platform for men to show that they have issues, too, even if they have to dress up as women to talk about them! All participants will be asked to raise money for the two prostate cancer charities (Prostate Cancer Research Foundation and the Prostate Cancer Support Federation) via online sponsorship pages, and they will be required to wear flamboyant female clothing for the duration of the march. It's that simple.
The X Foundation's film crew is currently following ten brave men living with prostate cancer as they spend three months training to become drag queens in order to promote Prostate Cancer Awareness Day and The Great Drag Race in the most funny and flamboyant way possible. Here is a 3-minute teaser for the documentary.
The Great Drag Race will begin and end in London Fields, and is open to men of all ages and abilities. Although the distance is 10.2km, we want the support of everyone brave enough to take part, even if they can only manage the final ten yards. To help celebrate our achievements, there will be celebrities, guest performances, and an after-party for all our participants and their friends and families..
Newsletter-Prostate Cancer Support Federation
Interesting to note that Mediwatch are the sponsors for the latest issue of the Prostate Matters newsletter.
And just seen this from the newsletter and taken from the third Annual Conference and AGM of the Prostate Cancer Support Federation which was held at the Penny Brohn Cancer Centre on 24th April 2010:
"After lunch the business part of the day took place, with the AGM of the Federation.
The chairman reported it had been a good year with the PSA debate taking place,the national helpline establishing itself with twelve helpliners taking on average 6 to 7 calls a week, the quarterly Prostate Matters newsletter is now sponsored by Mediwatch, the Federation launched its own version of the PCRMP aimed at GPs, we have a range of information sheets, knowledge empowers booklet and ‘a man’s thing’, we have also been offering grants, funded by Prostate UK, to member groups.and support the commissioning process."
Contents of newsletter
Page 1 Report on Risk Based Screening
page 2 Federation Conference & AGM
page 3 Federation Conference & AGM
• Prostate Cancer & Nitroglycerine
page 4 PROSTaidAwareness Event
page 5 Pelvic Floor Excersises
• Report Fish Oil & Omega 3
page 6 Letter From Graham Fulford
page 7 The Great Drag Race
page 8 Risk Based Screening
(Continued)
May edition of Prostate Matters published (Click Here)
And just seen this from the newsletter and taken from the third Annual Conference and AGM of the Prostate Cancer Support Federation which was held at the Penny Brohn Cancer Centre on 24th April 2010:
"After lunch the business part of the day took place, with the AGM of the Federation.
The chairman reported it had been a good year with the PSA debate taking place,the national helpline establishing itself with twelve helpliners taking on average 6 to 7 calls a week, the quarterly Prostate Matters newsletter is now sponsored by Mediwatch, the Federation launched its own version of the PCRMP aimed at GPs, we have a range of information sheets, knowledge empowers booklet and ‘a man’s thing’, we have also been offering grants, funded by Prostate UK, to member groups.and support the commissioning process."
Contents of newsletter
Page 1 Report on Risk Based Screening
page 2 Federation Conference & AGM
page 3 Federation Conference & AGM
• Prostate Cancer & Nitroglycerine
page 4 PROSTaidAwareness Event
page 5 Pelvic Floor Excersises
• Report Fish Oil & Omega 3
page 6 Letter From Graham Fulford
page 7 The Great Drag Race
page 8 Risk Based Screening
(Continued)
May edition of Prostate Matters published (Click Here)
Saturday 22 May 2010
Latest Mediwatch USA training programs for 2010
Urodynamics Workshop
26,27 June 2010
11,12 Sept 2010
23,24 Oct 2010
ARM Workshop
8 Oct. 2010
Mediwatch USA training programs for 2010
Mediwatch USA Support/Service
26,27 June 2010
11,12 Sept 2010
23,24 Oct 2010
ARM Workshop
8 Oct. 2010
Mediwatch USA training programs for 2010
Mediwatch USA Support/Service
Thursday 13 May 2010
New Bladderwatch?
Taken from the previous post and mediwatch exhibiting a 'New Bladderwatch'?
Back in 2006:
• Bladderwatch - a new quantitative point of care bladder cancer
test to be used in conjunction with the Bioscan reader is under
development.
Review of the six months ended 31st October 2005
I'll obviously look further into this.......
Just to clarify that Mediwatch already offer the 'Bladderwatch BTA' which is a stand alone test:
Bladderwatch BTA product
Back in 2006:
• Bladderwatch - a new quantitative point of care bladder cancer
test to be used in conjunction with the Bioscan reader is under
development.
Review of the six months ended 31st October 2005
I'll obviously look further into this.......
Just to clarify that Mediwatch already offer the 'Bladderwatch BTA' which is a stand alone test:
Bladderwatch BTA product
Mediwatch-Exhibiting
This event is probably quite small so not added to the Mediwatch website 'Events' page.....?
Understanding Urodynamics
Start: 18/05/2010 - 00:00
End: 19/05/2010 - 00:00
Joint RCOG/BSUG Meeting
OVERVIEW
The meeting will give an up-to-date perspective of the assessment and management of lower urinary tract dysfunction in women. This is a challenging area where the options for treatment are changing rapidly. This makes the understanding of the methods of assessment important and their interpretation vital. Topics that will be covered include:
•Basic anatomy and physiology of the lower urinary tract
•Interpretation and improving urodynamics
•Special indications for investigations and influence on management
•Complex investigations of the lower urinary tract
Why Attend?
•Understand why urodynamics is helpful
•Improve diagnostic skills
•Learn when and how to refer on for complex investigations
•Recognised for the urodynamics component of the urogynaecology ATSM
•This course covers the requirements for level A1 (female laboratory urodynamics) for more information please refer to the UKCS website UKCS.UK.net
•Claim a maximum of 13 CPD credits for full attendance at this course
Who Should Attend?
•Continence advisors
•Gynaecologists
•General practitioners
•Members of the pharmaceutical industry
•Physiotherapists
•Specialist nurses
•Trainees undertaking or planning to undertake the ATSM in urogynaecology
EXHIBITORS
Astellas,LABORIE and
Mediwatch - "Providing Complete Urological Diagnostic Services"
Urodynamics:
A NEW range of Urodynamic systems:
•Clinic with Sensic: Fully featured touch-screen system with a range of upgrades
•A complete range of urodynamics consumables
Ultrasound:
•Multiscan PVR real-time live ultrasound bladder scanner
Uroflowmetry:
•Urodyn+ with weight cell or spinning disc
•Portaflow Advanced for mobility and a PC database
POCT:
•New Bladderwatch
Mediwatch UK Ltd
Swift House
Cosford Lane
Rugby
CV21 1QN
Tel: +44 (0) 1788 547 888
Website: www.mediwatch.com
Understanding Urodynamics
Understanding Urodynamics Brochure (PDF)
Understanding Urodynamics
Start: 18/05/2010 - 00:00
End: 19/05/2010 - 00:00
Joint RCOG/BSUG Meeting
OVERVIEW
The meeting will give an up-to-date perspective of the assessment and management of lower urinary tract dysfunction in women. This is a challenging area where the options for treatment are changing rapidly. This makes the understanding of the methods of assessment important and their interpretation vital. Topics that will be covered include:
•Basic anatomy and physiology of the lower urinary tract
•Interpretation and improving urodynamics
•Special indications for investigations and influence on management
•Complex investigations of the lower urinary tract
Why Attend?
•Understand why urodynamics is helpful
•Improve diagnostic skills
•Learn when and how to refer on for complex investigations
•Recognised for the urodynamics component of the urogynaecology ATSM
•This course covers the requirements for level A1 (female laboratory urodynamics) for more information please refer to the UKCS website UKCS.UK.net
•Claim a maximum of 13 CPD credits for full attendance at this course
Who Should Attend?
•Continence advisors
•Gynaecologists
•General practitioners
•Members of the pharmaceutical industry
•Physiotherapists
•Specialist nurses
•Trainees undertaking or planning to undertake the ATSM in urogynaecology
EXHIBITORS
Astellas,LABORIE and
Mediwatch - "Providing Complete Urological Diagnostic Services"
Urodynamics:
A NEW range of Urodynamic systems:
•Clinic with Sensic: Fully featured touch-screen system with a range of upgrades
•A complete range of urodynamics consumables
Ultrasound:
•Multiscan PVR real-time live ultrasound bladder scanner
Uroflowmetry:
•Urodyn+ with weight cell or spinning disc
•Portaflow Advanced for mobility and a PC database
POCT:
•New Bladderwatch
Mediwatch UK Ltd
Swift House
Cosford Lane
Rugby
CV21 1QN
Tel: +44 (0) 1788 547 888
Website: www.mediwatch.com
Understanding Urodynamics
Understanding Urodynamics Brochure (PDF)
Friday 7 May 2010
A play by the UK-based Prostate Cancer Charity
The commonest cancer in men is prostate cancer. Because it's a gland that's deep inside the body it's known as the hidden cancer - and many men are embarrassed to talk about it.
The prostate produces fluid which carries sperm from the body. It's located close to the bladder - so difficulty passing urine or even needing go more often at night are signs that men might want to get checked out.
Some men are more at risk of prostate cancer than others. Statistics show that if your father or brother have had prostate cancer then you are two and a half times more likely to develop it yourself.
Some of the experiences of prostate cancer survivors like Denton Wilson have been into a play called Couples by the UK-based Prostate Cancer Charity.
Denton's moving story revolves round how he found his long-lost father in Jamaica, only to discover he was dying of prostate cancer. This alerted him to get himself checked out and he was successfully treated.
A play by the UK-based Prostate Cancer Charity
The prostate produces fluid which carries sperm from the body. It's located close to the bladder - so difficulty passing urine or even needing go more often at night are signs that men might want to get checked out.
Some men are more at risk of prostate cancer than others. Statistics show that if your father or brother have had prostate cancer then you are two and a half times more likely to develop it yourself.
Some of the experiences of prostate cancer survivors like Denton Wilson have been into a play called Couples by the UK-based Prostate Cancer Charity.
Denton's moving story revolves round how he found his long-lost father in Jamaica, only to discover he was dying of prostate cancer. This alerted him to get himself checked out and he was successfully treated.
A play by the UK-based Prostate Cancer Charity
Tuesday 4 May 2010
Mr. President, Light That White House Blue… PLEASE.
From Dan Zenka Vice President,Communications,Prostate Cancer Foundationand his blog:
Here’s a plea I submitted to the White House today. If you are so moved, please forward your own request via www.whitehouse.gov/contact. Feel free to cut and paste from the letter below or simply register your support by including the headline of this entry and the link for this entry (http://mynewyorkminute.org/?p=106 ) in the body of your message. Select “Non-policy issue” and “First Family” in the pull down menu. Let’s see if we can put some grass roots into action.
Dear President and First Lady Obama:
Okay, it might have sounded more impressive when President Reagan asked Gorbachev to tear down the Berlin Wall. Reagan’s intent was to free millions from oppressive rule. But my plea is not so different. All I’m asking for is a little assistance to help free millions of American men and their families from the oppressive and often lethal grip of prostate cancer. All I want to do is shed a bit of light—blue light—on the subject.
Many American men don’t take notice of subtleties. Perhaps lighting the residence of the leader of the free world blue for a few nights in September (National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month) might make a few take notice. “Hey… what’s that about..?” “Honey…, it’s about your prostate…” “My what…?” Every bit helps.
During the two years I have worked at the Prostate Cancer Foundation, I have desired to see a public landmark lit blue for the cause. Last year I spent four months trying to have the Empire State Building lit blue. I thought we had it. But in the end, the lighting went yellow and white to celebrate the reopening of a museum in Brooklyn. Now I believe art is an admirable cause, but people in the free world aren’t literally dying of it. What’s more, just a few weeks prior to our requested lighting date, New York’s famous landmark tower was ablaze in pink and white light for breast cancer awareness. The White House, the control tower at New York’s JFK airport, Niagara Falls, Los Angeles International Airport, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, among others, have all been pinkified in the fall.
You have to truly admire the mobilization around the breast cancer cause—it is to women what prostate cancer is to men. It’s extremely important. But what about us guys? Aren’t we needed too? Do we have to walk around carrying blue flashlights in the night randomly flashing them on public buildings and landmarks to get noticed?
Yes, as a recently diagnosed prostate cancer patient, I am a bit biased. But I am not asking that the lights be turned on just for me. Let’s do it to honor the more than 300,000 American men who have died from prostate cancer in the past decade; for the more than 192,000 new cases that will be diagnosed this year (that’s where I fit in); for the 300,000 possible new cases that might be diagnosed each year by 2015; for the 27,000 men in the U.S. who will die from it this year (one man every 19 minutes); for those men with a family history and whose odds of being diagnosed are doubled; for African-American men who are 60 percent more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and 2.4 times more likely to die from it; for the nearly 2.5 million American men and their families who are currently challenged by this cancer.
For one, or for all, let’s just do it. Let’s light 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue blue this September.
Respectfully,
Dan Zenka
Vice President, Communications, Prostate Cancer Foundation
Prostate Cancer Patient
Mr. President, Light That White House Blue… PLEASE.
Here’s a plea I submitted to the White House today. If you are so moved, please forward your own request via www.whitehouse.gov/contact. Feel free to cut and paste from the letter below or simply register your support by including the headline of this entry and the link for this entry (http://mynewyorkminute.org/?p=106 ) in the body of your message. Select “Non-policy issue” and “First Family” in the pull down menu. Let’s see if we can put some grass roots into action.
Dear President and First Lady Obama:
Okay, it might have sounded more impressive when President Reagan asked Gorbachev to tear down the Berlin Wall. Reagan’s intent was to free millions from oppressive rule. But my plea is not so different. All I’m asking for is a little assistance to help free millions of American men and their families from the oppressive and often lethal grip of prostate cancer. All I want to do is shed a bit of light—blue light—on the subject.
Many American men don’t take notice of subtleties. Perhaps lighting the residence of the leader of the free world blue for a few nights in September (National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month) might make a few take notice. “Hey… what’s that about..?” “Honey…, it’s about your prostate…” “My what…?” Every bit helps.
During the two years I have worked at the Prostate Cancer Foundation, I have desired to see a public landmark lit blue for the cause. Last year I spent four months trying to have the Empire State Building lit blue. I thought we had it. But in the end, the lighting went yellow and white to celebrate the reopening of a museum in Brooklyn. Now I believe art is an admirable cause, but people in the free world aren’t literally dying of it. What’s more, just a few weeks prior to our requested lighting date, New York’s famous landmark tower was ablaze in pink and white light for breast cancer awareness. The White House, the control tower at New York’s JFK airport, Niagara Falls, Los Angeles International Airport, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, among others, have all been pinkified in the fall.
You have to truly admire the mobilization around the breast cancer cause—it is to women what prostate cancer is to men. It’s extremely important. But what about us guys? Aren’t we needed too? Do we have to walk around carrying blue flashlights in the night randomly flashing them on public buildings and landmarks to get noticed?
Yes, as a recently diagnosed prostate cancer patient, I am a bit biased. But I am not asking that the lights be turned on just for me. Let’s do it to honor the more than 300,000 American men who have died from prostate cancer in the past decade; for the more than 192,000 new cases that will be diagnosed this year (that’s where I fit in); for the 300,000 possible new cases that might be diagnosed each year by 2015; for the 27,000 men in the U.S. who will die from it this year (one man every 19 minutes); for those men with a family history and whose odds of being diagnosed are doubled; for African-American men who are 60 percent more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and 2.4 times more likely to die from it; for the nearly 2.5 million American men and their families who are currently challenged by this cancer.
For one, or for all, let’s just do it. Let’s light 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue blue this September.
Respectfully,
Dan Zenka
Vice President, Communications, Prostate Cancer Foundation
Prostate Cancer Patient
Mr. President, Light That White House Blue… PLEASE.
FUTURE EVENTS AND LATEST NEWS
Latest News
Director Shareholding 4th May
Mediwatch Training Courses
Future Events
The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Annual Meeting(ASCRS) 15th-19th May
AUA Annual Meeting 29th May-3rd June
STUFF THAT MAYBE DID BUT NOW
DOESN'T FIT IN WITH THE TITLE...
Director Shareholding (14th April)
Mediwatch Annual Report 2009
December/January Mediwatch Newsletter
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
Director Shareholding 4th May
Mediwatch Training Courses
Future Events
The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Annual Meeting(ASCRS) 15th-19th May AUA Annual Meeting 29th May-3rd JuneSTUFF THAT MAYBE DID BUT NOW
DOESN'T FIT IN WITH THE TITLE...
Director Shareholding (14th April)
Mediwatch Annual Report 2009December/January Mediwatch Newsletter
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
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