Monday 18 November 2013
Medishafted!
Shame that Mediwatch as a company turned out to be a failure......directors did okay though,which is the main thing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday 5 November 2013
Urology Nurses and Associates Week
Urology nurses care for patients across the lifespan, providing guidance and treatment for a variety of urologic diseases and concerns. They work in all health care settings and specialize in such areas as continence care, male/female sexual dysfunction, infertility, oncology, surgery, cystoscopy, and urodynamics.
To recognize how valuable urologic nurses and associates are to the health care system and to their patients, the Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates (SUNA) has established Urology Nurses and Associates Week.
Sponsored by SUNA, Urology Nurses and Associates Week will be celebrated November 1-7 each year. During this special week, employers, patients and others can pay tribute to urologic health care professionals. Urology nurses and associates can also raise awareness of the specialty during this celebratory week.
Urology Nurses and Associates Week began in 2006 and was a highlight of SUNA’s 2006 Annual Conference in Kansas City, MO.
To recognize how valuable urologic nurses and associates are to the health care system and to their patients, the Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates (SUNA) has established Urology Nurses and Associates Week.
Sponsored by SUNA, Urology Nurses and Associates Week will be celebrated November 1-7 each year. During this special week, employers, patients and others can pay tribute to urologic health care professionals. Urology nurses and associates can also raise awareness of the specialty during this celebratory week.
Urology Nurses and Associates Week began in 2006 and was a highlight of SUNA’s 2006 Annual Conference in Kansas City, MO.
Saturday 2 November 2013
Cerne Abbas Giant-moustache for Movember
A huge grass moustache has been added
to the UK's largest chalk hill figure.
The Cerne Abbas Giant in Dorset is sporting facial "hair" in support of Movember, which raises awareness of prostate and testicular cancer.
The National Trust's Rob Rhodes said: "It's all a bit of fun to highlight an important subject so we were happy to give our support and join in the fun."
He said the moustache would remain for one day, and that there would be no damage to the giant.
"I am sure the giant would approve," he added.
The ancient 180ft (55m) tall giant's new moustache is 36ft (11m) by 9ft (2.7m).
A spokesman at British Seed Houses, which grew the whiskers, said it gave him a "rakish" appearance.
Local folklore describes the club-wielding figure, which dates back to at least 1694, as a symbol of spirituality and fertility.
The giant attracted attention in the summer of 2007 when a temporary chalk figure of Homer Simpson was drawn next to it, to promote The Simpsons Movie.
Money is raised for Movember during November each year by men growing moustaches to support health programmes that combat prostate and testicular cancer, and mental health challenges.
LATEST NEWS AND FUTURE EVENTS
Latest News/Website Updates
Urology Times-November Issue
Renal & Urology News-November Issue
Oct 18 (Reuters) - Mediwatch PLC : * Response to increase in share price * Mediwatch confirms that it has received an initial approach from laborie
Mediwatch Positions/Jobs
Future Events Events where Mediwatch are attending/exhibiting will be marked as so or updated,hopefully before the event is finished.More Events to add later
2013 LUGPA Annual Meeting (Chicago) November 7-9, 2013Mediwatch/Distributor Training Courses
Urodynamics Workshop WPB--- 23,24 Mar 2013
ARM Workshop Boston 31 May 2013
Urodynamics Workshop WPB 9,10 Nov 2013
Newsletters
Mediwatch Newsletter 2013 Q3
Mediwatch Newsletter 2013 Q2
Mediwatch Newsletter 2012 Q1
Mediwatch Newsletter 2011 Q4
STUFF THAT MAYBE DID BUT NOW DOESN'T FIT IN WITH THE TITLE...
Saturday 26 October 2013
Movember's new branding for 2013 event
The Movember men’s health initiative has launched new branding for this year’s event.
Movember encourages men to grow moustaches during November to raise awareness of, and funds for, prostate and testicular cancer.
The branding, which is refreshed each year, is created by Melbourne-based consultancy Urchin Associates.
Last year’s look was based on the idea of a traditional father-and-son run business; while this year’s branding has a monochrome palette, with a rebellious aesthetic based on a campaign message ‘if you don’t like our moustaches we don’t like your laws’.
The main Movember word-mark has a hand-drawn brushstroke look, and is always capitalised; while secondary text uses capitalised stencil-like typography.
Snake and wolf graphics are used across the branding, with a two-headed snake forming a line above the logo on a number of applications and a howling wolf seen with lightening flashes.
Movember encourages men to grow moustaches during November to raise awareness of, and funds for, prostate and testicular cancer.
The branding, which is refreshed each year, is created by Melbourne-based consultancy Urchin Associates.
Last year’s look was based on the idea of a traditional father-and-son run business; while this year’s branding has a monochrome palette, with a rebellious aesthetic based on a campaign message ‘if you don’t like our moustaches we don’t like your laws’.
The main Movember word-mark has a hand-drawn brushstroke look, and is always capitalised; while secondary text uses capitalised stencil-like typography.
Snake and wolf graphics are used across the branding, with a two-headed snake forming a line above the logo on a number of applications and a howling wolf seen with lightening flashes.
Thursday 24 October 2013
Movember-bits and bobs
The Mr Mo book can be bought from Amazon, while there are more details about Movemeber here. Metro is also giving away 100 limited-edition printed copies of the new book. For a chance to win one, go to metro.co.uk/madeforthecity
GENERAL,UROLOGY and CHARITY WEBSITES (Updated-24th October 2013)
This is a copy of useful websites found in the main information pages under April 2009....
Posted again to remind me to add/remove any as required and update said April 2009 pages too! (added CANSA-South Africa)
GENERAL/UROLOGY MEDICAL
WEBSITES
CANSA-South Africa
OncLive
PULSE-General Medical Information/News
Prostate Conditions Education Council (PCEC)-USA
British Association of Urological Nurses(BAUN)
EUROCARE
URO TODAY
UROLOGY TIMES
American Urological Association
EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION OF UROLOGY
NHS-CHOICES
NICE-INDEPENDENT ADVISORY GROUP (UK)
PATIENT UK
MEDICAL NEWS TODAY (UK with global news)
Scottish Practice Nurses Association
MEDICAL DAILY
University of Florida Shands Cancer Center
European Hospital
UROLOGY,CANCER AND PROSTATE
CANCER SPECIFIC CHARITY WEBSITES
UK
The Urology Foundation (UK)
The Graham Fulford Charitable Trust (UK)
Friends of Prostate Sufferers (FOPS) (UK)
PCaSO-Prostate Cancer Network (UK)
Prostaid (UK)
UCARE-UK
THE PROSTATE SCREENING TRUST
PROSTATE SCOTLAND
BRISTOL UROLOGICAL INSTITUTE
PROSTATE CANCER UK
Prostate Cancer UK-Youtube Channel
PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT ASSOCIATION (UK)
CANCER RESEARCH UK
CANCERBACKUP/MACMILLAN (UK)
The Cystitis and Overactive Bladder Foundation (UK)
The Bladder and Bowel Foundation (UK)
The X Foundation (Raising money for the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation"
ROW
Prostate Cancer InfoLink
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia
The Cancer Society of New Zealand
The Prostate Cancer Foundation-USA
American Cancer Society
Canadian Prostate Cancer Network
CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY
WORLD CANCER RESEARCH FUND
ZERO (USA)
Posted again to remind me to add/remove any as required and update said April 2009 pages too! (added CANSA-South Africa)
GENERAL/UROLOGY MEDICAL
WEBSITES
CANSA-South Africa
OncLive
PULSE-General Medical Information/News
Prostate Conditions Education Council (PCEC)-USA
British Association of Urological Nurses(BAUN)
EUROCARE
URO TODAY
UROLOGY TIMES
American Urological Association
EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION OF UROLOGY
NHS-CHOICES
NICE-INDEPENDENT ADVISORY GROUP (UK)
PATIENT UK
MEDICAL NEWS TODAY (UK with global news)
Scottish Practice Nurses Association
MEDICAL DAILY
University of Florida Shands Cancer Center
European Hospital
UROLOGY,CANCER AND PROSTATE
CANCER SPECIFIC CHARITY WEBSITES
UK
The Urology Foundation (UK)
The Graham Fulford Charitable Trust (UK)
Friends of Prostate Sufferers (FOPS) (UK)
PCaSO-Prostate Cancer Network (UK)
Prostaid (UK)
UCARE-UK
THE PROSTATE SCREENING TRUST
PROSTATE SCOTLAND
BRISTOL UROLOGICAL INSTITUTE
PROSTATE CANCER UK
Prostate Cancer UK-Youtube Channel
PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT ASSOCIATION (UK)
CANCER RESEARCH UK
CANCERBACKUP/MACMILLAN (UK)
The Cystitis and Overactive Bladder Foundation (UK)
The Bladder and Bowel Foundation (UK)
The X Foundation (Raising money for the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation"
ROW
Prostate Cancer InfoLink
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia
The Cancer Society of New Zealand
The Prostate Cancer Foundation-USA
American Cancer Society
Canadian Prostate Cancer Network
CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY
WORLD CANCER RESEARCH FUND
ZERO (USA)
Tuesday 22 October 2013
Canada-PCC New Recommendations
4th September 2013
TORONTO: New recommendations released today by Prostate Cancer Canada (PCC) will empower Canadian males to take a more active role in monitoring their number one cancer risk: prostate cancer. A recent nationwide poll showed that while 87% of Canadian men aged 35+ fear prostate cancer, less than half anticipate being tested in the next 12 months – even though early diagnosis can increase the odds of survival.
“Prostate Cancer Canada recognizes that men need to be better informed about prostate testing, particularly the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test,” says Dr. Stuart Edmonds, VP, Research, Health Promotion & Survivorship, Prostate Cancer Canada. “To address this confusion, we conducted an extensive review of the evidence and from this developed our primary recommendation: Men should get a baseline PSA test in their 40s instead of waiting until their 50s.”
“PSA levels can vary between individuals so a test in the early 40’s can provide a baseline and allow us to better tailor clinical follow-up,” says Prostate Cancer Canada spokesperson Dr. Rajiv Singal, Urologist at Toronto East General Hospital and Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto. “The PSA is an important marker for a disease in which symptoms are not always present.”
PCC also recommends the decision to end PSA testing should be based on individual risk, rather than an arbitrary cut-off such as age 70. “Men are living longer and their lives should not be cut short or diminished by prostate cancer,” says Dr. Edmonds. “The decision to end testing should be a shared decision determined by a man and his primary care provider.”
“Some men are at increased risk because of ethnicity (Black African or Black Caribbean descent), a family history of prostate cancer, or age,” says Dr. Singal. “Men at high risk should talk to their primary care provider even earlier than their 40s. However, in my 18 years of practice, the majority of aggressive cancers have been found in men with seemingly no risk factors – underscoring the importance of baseline testing.”
More from link below
TORONTO: New recommendations released today by Prostate Cancer Canada (PCC) will empower Canadian males to take a more active role in monitoring their number one cancer risk: prostate cancer. A recent nationwide poll showed that while 87% of Canadian men aged 35+ fear prostate cancer, less than half anticipate being tested in the next 12 months – even though early diagnosis can increase the odds of survival.
“Prostate Cancer Canada recognizes that men need to be better informed about prostate testing, particularly the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test,” says Dr. Stuart Edmonds, VP, Research, Health Promotion & Survivorship, Prostate Cancer Canada. “To address this confusion, we conducted an extensive review of the evidence and from this developed our primary recommendation: Men should get a baseline PSA test in their 40s instead of waiting until their 50s.”
“PSA levels can vary between individuals so a test in the early 40’s can provide a baseline and allow us to better tailor clinical follow-up,” says Prostate Cancer Canada spokesperson Dr. Rajiv Singal, Urologist at Toronto East General Hospital and Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto. “The PSA is an important marker for a disease in which symptoms are not always present.”
PCC also recommends the decision to end PSA testing should be based on individual risk, rather than an arbitrary cut-off such as age 70. “Men are living longer and their lives should not be cut short or diminished by prostate cancer,” says Dr. Edmonds. “The decision to end testing should be a shared decision determined by a man and his primary care provider.”
“Some men are at increased risk because of ethnicity (Black African or Black Caribbean descent), a family history of prostate cancer, or age,” says Dr. Singal. “Men at high risk should talk to their primary care provider even earlier than their 40s. However, in my 18 years of practice, the majority of aggressive cancers have been found in men with seemingly no risk factors – underscoring the importance of baseline testing.”
More from link below
Monday 21 October 2013
Australia-Prostate Cancer Pack
Please remember the following is from the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia but may be
of general interest globally.
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia's Localised Prostate Cancer Patient Pack is designed for people with a recent diagnosis of localised prostate cancer. The pack contains a suite of information resources for men and their families and friends.
http://www.prostate.org.au/articleLive/pages/Localised-Prostate-Cancer-Pack.html
UK-PSAwatch In Action!
VIDEOS: Lifesaving Winsford cancer testing event is a UK first
Wednesday 16th October 2013
The testing team at Asda in Winsford
Veteran LHPCSG fundraiser, Winn Bond, process the test in less than ten minutes.
SHOPPERS in Winsford were given the offer of a lifetime courtesy of a royally-recognised cancer testing pioneer.
For the first time ever in the UK, men had the chance to get a lifesaving prostate specific antigen (PSA) test carried out for free while they picked up their weekly groceries.
The Leighton Hospital Prostate Cancer Support Group (LHPCSG) has tested 1,210 men this year alone – successfully treating 38 men for cancer. The charity’s chairman, Gary Steele, was awarded the MBE this year for his lifesaving work, and his tireless campaign to get the Government to roll out his technique across the NHS.
“It’s gone very, very well. There has been a great turnout,” said the Cherry Crescent resident of teh event on Monday, October 7. “Men are coming along, sitting down, and putting their test into the machine. That’s him finished then, and he can go shopping with his misses. “Ten minutes later, he can come back and he’s got his result.
It’s completely revolutionised how we can operate.” The supermarket-based event allowed Gary to target men who might not have found time to attend one of the dedicated testing events he runs throughout the year.
Tony Vine, 68, was visiting his Winsford partner from his home in Rossett in North Wales when he dropped into Asda. In less than 10 minutes he was able to get a PSA test and put his mind at rest. “It was an absolute piece of cake, no problems whatsoever. “I’ve been saying I’d get it done for several years but never got round to it. “It was fantastic walking in today and being able to get it done so quickly.”
http://www.winsfordguardian.co.uk/video/2748009416001/?ref=vidshare
If the PSA test result shows a risk of developing cancer, the charity’s eurologist, Dr David Baxter Smith, conducts another simple test that avoids the need for an invasive biopsy procedure. The sample is then boxed and sent to experts in Cambridge, costing the charity £200.
LHPSSG’s lifesaving work has cost in excess of £40,000 this year alone – all of which has to be raised by charitable donation. “It’s a lot of money, but what price do you put on a man’s life?” said Gary.
http://www.winsfordguardian.co.uk/video/2748009421001/?ref=vidshare
Gary is encouraging men to ‘save a dad; grow a moustache’ next month for ‘Movember’ and raise money for the LHPSSG.
To get in touch for a PSA test or for fundraising forms, call 01606 553097 or email coli.hubball@tiscali.co.uk
For more on prostate cancer, visit prostatecanceruk.org Breakout The UK falls well behind the rest of Europe, and America, in PSA testing. Gary’s work massively expands the current treatments available on the NHS – offering PSA testing to a wider age range, with the offer of further expert testing if required.
In the rest of Europe and throughout many countries elsewhere in the world, all men of 50 are required to undertake a test, and Gary wants to see the UK follow the example, as well as wider use of the life-extending prostate cancer drug, abiraterone.
LHPSSG has detected 51 cancers this year alone, of which 38 have been successfully treated – that’s 38 lives saved. The remainder are on active surveillance, whereby Gary’s charity keeps tabs on the patient, offering further testing and continued support.
80 per cent of men diagnosed with prostate cancer don’t have any symptoms.
Wednesday 16th October 2013
The testing team at Asda in Winsford
Veteran LHPCSG fundraiser, Winn Bond, process the test in less than ten minutes.SHOPPERS in Winsford were given the offer of a lifetime courtesy of a royally-recognised cancer testing pioneer.
For the first time ever in the UK, men had the chance to get a lifesaving prostate specific antigen (PSA) test carried out for free while they picked up their weekly groceries.
The Leighton Hospital Prostate Cancer Support Group (LHPCSG) has tested 1,210 men this year alone – successfully treating 38 men for cancer. The charity’s chairman, Gary Steele, was awarded the MBE this year for his lifesaving work, and his tireless campaign to get the Government to roll out his technique across the NHS.
“It’s gone very, very well. There has been a great turnout,” said the Cherry Crescent resident of teh event on Monday, October 7. “Men are coming along, sitting down, and putting their test into the machine. That’s him finished then, and he can go shopping with his misses. “Ten minutes later, he can come back and he’s got his result.
It’s completely revolutionised how we can operate.” The supermarket-based event allowed Gary to target men who might not have found time to attend one of the dedicated testing events he runs throughout the year.
Tony Vine, 68, was visiting his Winsford partner from his home in Rossett in North Wales when he dropped into Asda. In less than 10 minutes he was able to get a PSA test and put his mind at rest. “It was an absolute piece of cake, no problems whatsoever. “I’ve been saying I’d get it done for several years but never got round to it. “It was fantastic walking in today and being able to get it done so quickly.”
http://www.winsfordguardian.co.uk/video/2748009416001/?ref=vidshare
If the PSA test result shows a risk of developing cancer, the charity’s eurologist, Dr David Baxter Smith, conducts another simple test that avoids the need for an invasive biopsy procedure. The sample is then boxed and sent to experts in Cambridge, costing the charity £200.
LHPSSG’s lifesaving work has cost in excess of £40,000 this year alone – all of which has to be raised by charitable donation. “It’s a lot of money, but what price do you put on a man’s life?” said Gary.
http://www.winsfordguardian.co.uk/video/2748009421001/?ref=vidshare
Gary is encouraging men to ‘save a dad; grow a moustache’ next month for ‘Movember’ and raise money for the LHPSSG.
To get in touch for a PSA test or for fundraising forms, call 01606 553097 or email coli.hubball@tiscali.co.uk
For more on prostate cancer, visit prostatecanceruk.org Breakout The UK falls well behind the rest of Europe, and America, in PSA testing. Gary’s work massively expands the current treatments available on the NHS – offering PSA testing to a wider age range, with the offer of further expert testing if required.
In the rest of Europe and throughout many countries elsewhere in the world, all men of 50 are required to undertake a test, and Gary wants to see the UK follow the example, as well as wider use of the life-extending prostate cancer drug, abiraterone.
LHPSSG has detected 51 cancers this year alone, of which 38 have been successfully treated – that’s 38 lives saved. The remainder are on active surveillance, whereby Gary’s charity keeps tabs on the patient, offering further testing and continued support.
80 per cent of men diagnosed with prostate cancer don’t have any symptoms.
UK-New stat for Black men cancer risk
One in four Black men in UK will get prostate cancer
A shocking new figure released in Black History Month by the health charity Prostate Cancer UK reveals that one in every four Black men in the UK will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in his lifetime*. That’s double the overall 1-in-8 cradle-to-grave risk faced by all men in the UK.
“It’s like Russian Roulette but with only four players chancing the bullet. This statistic is a wake-up call to Black men about the unique danger they face - and we’re warning them to act on it. Fathers, brothers, partners, sons - with every fourth Black man or boy in the UK destined to get this potentially fatal disease at some time, it’s vital that everything possible is done to identify and catch aggressive cancers early”, said Cordwell Thomas, who heads Prostate Cancer UK’s partnership with Britain’s African and African Caribbean communities.
Calculation of the specific lifetime risk to Black men was undertaken by Prostate Cancer UK as part of its continuing drive to support the men of Britain’s two million strong African and African Caribbean population in recognising both the threat to their prostate health and their responsibility to be proactive in seeking out advice and support.
Cordwell Thomas continued:
“Many health professionals are not even aware that Black ancestry is a prostate cancer risk factor. What’s more, Black guys often don’t claim their rights to health care. They’re not first in line to see the GP or to call our helpline to discuss concerns like erectile dysfunction or problems peeing. With so many lives at risk, we all have to work together to ensure that Black men wise up to the issue and those affected seek and receive appropriate healthcare.”
With the backing of its major funding partner, Movember, Prostate Cancer UK provides support to thousands of men facing prostate cancer and it has consistently emphasised the higher risk faced by Black men. The urgent need to help Britain’s Black communities act upon their raised risk means Prostate Cancer UK is bringing together the community leaders and clinicians who can encourage Black men to face up to their heightened prostate cancer risk, engage with it, and take the necessary action.
“It’s your life and the message is know your risk and know your responsibility. It’s about taking charge of your own health. As a Black man, you’re already in a high risk group, so the worst thing to do is to ignore the risk. Confront it, speak to your wife, partner or friends about it, and consult your GP over whether a test is advisable in your case. Even when you have no actual symptoms, you are entitled to a test if you are over 50 and have spoken to your GP”, says Cordwell Thomas.
Football legend, sports broadcaster and ambassador for Prostate Cancer UK, Mark Bright said:
“I’m a black man and I am over 50. My risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer is significantly higher than that of a white man of the same age. Now we know that one in four black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some time in his life, we owe it to ourselves and our loved ones to take responsibility for our health and understand our risks.
“If you’re a black man and over 50, speak to your GP or call the Prostate Cancer UK helpline to find out about your risk and what you can do about it.”
Prostate Cancer UK volunteer Phil Kissi MBE is a survivor of the disease:
“It is terrifying to think that I could so easily have carried on without knowing anything about prostate cancer despite it being the most common cancer diagnosed in men in the UK. Luckily my GP was very supportive when I raised my concerns with him and I caught the cancer in time to have successful treatment but it saddens me to think that others may not have this chance.
“Ultimately it is up to us men to respect and take responsibility for our health but I needed a lot of support from my friends and family,” he says.
“2013 is the 65th anniversary of the Windrush Landing. It is ironical that youngsters who arrived on that ship a whole lifetime ago and have won countless battles over the decades still face a major public health inequality based on nothing but ethnicity. That’s why Prostate Cancer UK puts in the research, services and support that will help more Black men like Phil to survive this disease,” said Cordwell Thomas.
If you have concerns about prostate cancer or the raised risk to men of black ancestry please call Prostate Cancer UK's confidential Helpline on 0800 074 8383 or visit www.prostatecanceruk.org. The helpline is free to landlines, staffed by specialist nurses, and open from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday with late opening until 8pm on Wednesdays.
A shocking new figure released in Black History Month by the health charity Prostate Cancer UK reveals that one in every four Black men in the UK will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in his lifetime*. That’s double the overall 1-in-8 cradle-to-grave risk faced by all men in the UK.
“It’s like Russian Roulette but with only four players chancing the bullet. This statistic is a wake-up call to Black men about the unique danger they face - and we’re warning them to act on it. Fathers, brothers, partners, sons - with every fourth Black man or boy in the UK destined to get this potentially fatal disease at some time, it’s vital that everything possible is done to identify and catch aggressive cancers early”, said Cordwell Thomas, who heads Prostate Cancer UK’s partnership with Britain’s African and African Caribbean communities.
Calculation of the specific lifetime risk to Black men was undertaken by Prostate Cancer UK as part of its continuing drive to support the men of Britain’s two million strong African and African Caribbean population in recognising both the threat to their prostate health and their responsibility to be proactive in seeking out advice and support.
Cordwell Thomas continued:
“Many health professionals are not even aware that Black ancestry is a prostate cancer risk factor. What’s more, Black guys often don’t claim their rights to health care. They’re not first in line to see the GP or to call our helpline to discuss concerns like erectile dysfunction or problems peeing. With so many lives at risk, we all have to work together to ensure that Black men wise up to the issue and those affected seek and receive appropriate healthcare.”
With the backing of its major funding partner, Movember, Prostate Cancer UK provides support to thousands of men facing prostate cancer and it has consistently emphasised the higher risk faced by Black men. The urgent need to help Britain’s Black communities act upon their raised risk means Prostate Cancer UK is bringing together the community leaders and clinicians who can encourage Black men to face up to their heightened prostate cancer risk, engage with it, and take the necessary action.
“It’s your life and the message is know your risk and know your responsibility. It’s about taking charge of your own health. As a Black man, you’re already in a high risk group, so the worst thing to do is to ignore the risk. Confront it, speak to your wife, partner or friends about it, and consult your GP over whether a test is advisable in your case. Even when you have no actual symptoms, you are entitled to a test if you are over 50 and have spoken to your GP”, says Cordwell Thomas.
Football legend, sports broadcaster and ambassador for Prostate Cancer UK, Mark Bright said:
“I’m a black man and I am over 50. My risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer is significantly higher than that of a white man of the same age. Now we know that one in four black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some time in his life, we owe it to ourselves and our loved ones to take responsibility for our health and understand our risks.
“If you’re a black man and over 50, speak to your GP or call the Prostate Cancer UK helpline to find out about your risk and what you can do about it.”
Prostate Cancer UK volunteer Phil Kissi MBE is a survivor of the disease:
“It is terrifying to think that I could so easily have carried on without knowing anything about prostate cancer despite it being the most common cancer diagnosed in men in the UK. Luckily my GP was very supportive when I raised my concerns with him and I caught the cancer in time to have successful treatment but it saddens me to think that others may not have this chance.
“Ultimately it is up to us men to respect and take responsibility for our health but I needed a lot of support from my friends and family,” he says.
“2013 is the 65th anniversary of the Windrush Landing. It is ironical that youngsters who arrived on that ship a whole lifetime ago and have won countless battles over the decades still face a major public health inequality based on nothing but ethnicity. That’s why Prostate Cancer UK puts in the research, services and support that will help more Black men like Phil to survive this disease,” said Cordwell Thomas.
If you have concerns about prostate cancer or the raised risk to men of black ancestry please call Prostate Cancer UK's confidential Helpline on 0800 074 8383 or visit www.prostatecanceruk.org. The helpline is free to landlines, staffed by specialist nurses, and open from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday with late opening until 8pm on Wednesdays.
Saturday 19 October 2013
Initial Approach from Laborie Medical
Oct 18 (Reuters) - Mediwatch PLC : * Response to increase in share price * Mediwatch confirms that it has received an initial approach from laborie
Monday 14 October 2013
LATEST NEWS AND FUTURE EVENTS
Latest News/Website Updates
Oct 18 (Reuters) - Mediwatch PLC : * Response to increase in share price * Mediwatch confirms that it has received an initial approach from laborie
Mediwatch Positions/Jobs
Future Events Events where Mediwatch are attending/exhibiting will be marked as so or updated,hopefully before the event is finished.More Events to add later
University of Minnesota Colon & Rectal surgery meeting in Minneapolis to demonstrate our newest products.(Wednesday | Oct 23, 2013-date is a guess! )
AUGS 34th Annual Scientific Meeting
October 16-19, 2013
Location: Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, NV
2013 Annual ConferenceOctober 11-14, 2013
Hyatt Regency
Chicago, IL
Mediwatch/Distributor Training Courses
Urodynamics Workshop WPB--- 23,24 Mar 2013
ARM Workshop Boston 31 May 2013
Urodynamics Workshop WPB 9,10 Nov 2013
Newsletters
Mediwatch Newsletter 2013 Q3
Mediwatch Newsletter 2013 Q2
Mediwatch Newsletter 2012 Q1
Mediwatch Newsletter 2011 Q4
STUFF THAT MAYBE DID BUT NOW DOESN'T FIT IN WITH THE TITLE...
Saturday 7 September 2013
Canada-New screening guidelines PC
New screening guidelines for prostate cancer recommend that men first be tested when in their 40s in order to establish a "baseline" for future risk.
The guidelines -- released by Prostate Cancer Canada on Wednesday -- suggest men should receive an initial Prostate-specific Antigen (PSA) blood test in their 40s so they "know their numbers" earlier.
A PSA test is the standard screening test for prostate cancer, though elevated levels of PSA in the blood can be caused by a number of factors -- and is not necessarily linked to prostate cancer.
It was previously suggested that men could wait until their 50s to take a PSA test.
Prostate Cancer Canada also suggests that the decision to end PSA testing should be based on individual risk, rather than an "arbitrary" cut-off age, such as 70.
The guidelines were released after a nation-wide poll that showed, while 87 per cent of Canadian men over the age of 34 fear prostate cancer, less than 50 per cent anticipate being tested in the next 12 months.
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting Canadian men, with approximately one-in-seven being impacted by it over the course of their life.
Dr. Stuart Edmonds, vice-president of research and health promotion at Prostate Cancer Canada, said that men need to be better informed about prostate testing. The new guidelines are the result of an extensive review of the research and evidence, he added.
Prostate Cancer Canada spokesperson and assistant professor of surgery Dr. Rajiv Singal said getting a PSA test in your early 40s can provide a better baseline and later allow doctors to better tailor a clinical follow-up.
"The PSA is an important marker for a disease in which symptoms are not always present," he said in a statement.
Prostate Cancer Canada President Rocco Rossi told CTV's Canada AM that men who are at greater risk for prostate cancer -- including men of African or Caribbean descent or men who have a history of prostate cancer in their family -- should speak with their doctors about getting tested in their 30s.
"All the research shows us that with early detection prostate cancer is treatable in over 90 per cent of the cases. So if you wait too late, you lose the benefit of that early detection," he said.
He stressed that getting a PSA test in your 40s does not automatically mean yearly testing or treatment. Instead, it's about "establishing a baseline."
Rossi compared getting a PSA test to getting your cholesterol checked. "This is one of those numbers that you need to know."
He acknowledged concerns that earlier screening may lead to over-diagnosis and possible unnecessary biopsies, but said that decision lies with the physician.
"We want to avoid that and that's the responsibility of the doctor and the urologist to go through a proper triaging … a proper escalation," Rossi said.
After knowing the results of your PSA test, patients can consult with their doctors and determine the next course of action, including setting up a testing routine that's appropriate for a patient's individual risk level, he added.
Risk of over treating
But with more screening there is always the concern of over treating, says CTV's Medical Expert Dr. Marla Shapiro.
"When we talk about doing a screening test, it's not just the result of the screening test it's what that screening test leads to," Shapiro said Wednesday.
And with prostate cancer screening there is the chance of it leading to a biopsy, which carries risks including infection, sepsis, fever and hemorrhage, she said.
"We want to make sure we're introducing a test where the downside is not going to blur out the potential diagnostic benefit.”
She noted that a good screening test should have the ability to separate high cancer burden that will end up developing into a significant outcome versus cases that might never develop.
She added that guidelines on prostate cancer screening vary across North America which can lead to confusion for patients.
For example, the U.S. Preventative Task Force recommends no one be screened with a PSA test because it doesn't actually show a survival benefit.
Meanwhile the American Urological Association recommends PSA testing between the ages of 55 to 69 and only earlier for special high-risk groups.
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in the U.S. recommends testing between the ages of 45 to 49 for individuals of average risk and additional screening to be determined based on the results of the initial test.
Shapiro said the different recommendations show the need for more education for men so they can speak with their doctor about the best screening options for them.
"I think it's very hard to have these broad screening guidelines," she said. "What this means is that you as an individual man have to have the conversation with your physician and understand the entire implications of what this means to have a PSA, how frequently it should be done and the possible outcomes it could lead to."
The guidelines -- released by Prostate Cancer Canada on Wednesday -- suggest men should receive an initial Prostate-specific Antigen (PSA) blood test in their 40s so they "know their numbers" earlier.
A PSA test is the standard screening test for prostate cancer, though elevated levels of PSA in the blood can be caused by a number of factors -- and is not necessarily linked to prostate cancer.
It was previously suggested that men could wait until their 50s to take a PSA test.
Prostate Cancer Canada also suggests that the decision to end PSA testing should be based on individual risk, rather than an "arbitrary" cut-off age, such as 70.
The guidelines were released after a nation-wide poll that showed, while 87 per cent of Canadian men over the age of 34 fear prostate cancer, less than 50 per cent anticipate being tested in the next 12 months.
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting Canadian men, with approximately one-in-seven being impacted by it over the course of their life.
Dr. Stuart Edmonds, vice-president of research and health promotion at Prostate Cancer Canada, said that men need to be better informed about prostate testing. The new guidelines are the result of an extensive review of the research and evidence, he added.
Prostate Cancer Canada spokesperson and assistant professor of surgery Dr. Rajiv Singal said getting a PSA test in your early 40s can provide a better baseline and later allow doctors to better tailor a clinical follow-up.
"The PSA is an important marker for a disease in which symptoms are not always present," he said in a statement.
Prostate Cancer Canada President Rocco Rossi told CTV's Canada AM that men who are at greater risk for prostate cancer -- including men of African or Caribbean descent or men who have a history of prostate cancer in their family -- should speak with their doctors about getting tested in their 30s.
"All the research shows us that with early detection prostate cancer is treatable in over 90 per cent of the cases. So if you wait too late, you lose the benefit of that early detection," he said.
He stressed that getting a PSA test in your 40s does not automatically mean yearly testing or treatment. Instead, it's about "establishing a baseline."
Rossi compared getting a PSA test to getting your cholesterol checked. "This is one of those numbers that you need to know."
He acknowledged concerns that earlier screening may lead to over-diagnosis and possible unnecessary biopsies, but said that decision lies with the physician.
"We want to avoid that and that's the responsibility of the doctor and the urologist to go through a proper triaging … a proper escalation," Rossi said.
After knowing the results of your PSA test, patients can consult with their doctors and determine the next course of action, including setting up a testing routine that's appropriate for a patient's individual risk level, he added.
Risk of over treating
But with more screening there is always the concern of over treating, says CTV's Medical Expert Dr. Marla Shapiro.
"When we talk about doing a screening test, it's not just the result of the screening test it's what that screening test leads to," Shapiro said Wednesday.
And with prostate cancer screening there is the chance of it leading to a biopsy, which carries risks including infection, sepsis, fever and hemorrhage, she said.
"We want to make sure we're introducing a test where the downside is not going to blur out the potential diagnostic benefit.”
She noted that a good screening test should have the ability to separate high cancer burden that will end up developing into a significant outcome versus cases that might never develop.
She added that guidelines on prostate cancer screening vary across North America which can lead to confusion for patients.
For example, the U.S. Preventative Task Force recommends no one be screened with a PSA test because it doesn't actually show a survival benefit.
Meanwhile the American Urological Association recommends PSA testing between the ages of 55 to 69 and only earlier for special high-risk groups.
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in the U.S. recommends testing between the ages of 45 to 49 for individuals of average risk and additional screening to be determined based on the results of the initial test.
Shapiro said the different recommendations show the need for more education for men so they can speak with their doctor about the best screening options for them.
"I think it's very hard to have these broad screening guidelines," she said. "What this means is that you as an individual man have to have the conversation with your physician and understand the entire implications of what this means to have a PSA, how frequently it should be done and the possible outcomes it could lead to."
Tuesday 3 September 2013
Blue September
Blue September is a nationwide awareness and fundraising initiative about all the cancers that affect men – not just prostate and testicular cancer, but also bowel, lung, liver, pancreatic and other cancers. The campaign aims to raise funds for Australian Prostate Cancer Research and Australian Cancer Research Foundation charities to raise men's awareness of cancer and help them to reduce the risk of developing and dying from cancer by making better lifestyle choices and seeking help sooner rather than later.
LATEST NEWS AND FUTURE EVENTS
Latest News/Website Updates
Mediwatch Positions/Jobs
Future Events Events where Mediwatch are attending/exhibiting will be marked as so or updated,hopefully before the event is finished.More Events to add later
Mediwatch/Distributor Training Courses
Urodynamics Workshop WPB--- 23,24 Mar 2013
ARM Workshop Boston 31 May 2013
Urodynamics Workshop WPB 9,10 Nov 2013
Newsletters
Mediwatch Newsletter 2013 Q2
Mediwatch Newsletter 2012 Q1
Mediwatch Newsletter 2011 Q4
STUFF THAT MAYBE DID BUT NOW DOESN'T FIT IN WITH THE TITLE...
Sunday 18 August 2013
UK-PCaSO Prostate Cancer Network
Below is a link to the latest PCaSO Prostate Cancer Network newsletter:
New, six-point statement about PSA testing issued at PCWC
This was posted on 'The New Prostate Cancer InfoLink' on the 7th August:
Posted on August 7, 2013 by Sitemaster
According to a report on the Bloomberg.com web site, attendees meeting at the Prostate Cancer World Congress (PCWC) in Melbourne, Australia have issued a new, six-point consensus statement about the use of the PSA test in the initial detection of prostate cancer.
The key points of the consensus statement are as follows:
•For men aged 50–69, there is evidence that PSA testing reduces the risk of metastatic prostate cancer and of death from prostate cancer by up to 30 percent and 21 percent, respectively.
•Prostate cancer diagnosis must be uncoupled from prostate cancer intervention through active surveillance of men with low-volume, low-risk prostate cancer.
•PSA testing should not be considered on its own but as part of a multivariable approach, including digital rectal examination, prostate volume, family history, ethnicity, and risk prediction models.
•Baseline PSA testing for men in their 40s is useful for predicting the future risk of prostate cancer, especially for those whose baseline PSA is in the highest centiles above the median
•Older men in good health with a life expectancy of more than 10 years should not be denied PSA testing on the basis of their age because a small proportion of older men may benefit from an early diagnosis of more aggressive forms of localized prostate cancer.
The “New” Prostate Cancer InfoLink concurs completely with this six-point statement. The critical issue will be whether the global urology community actually starts to act in accordance with these six points and proactively starts to help patients with clinically insignificant prostate cancer to avoid over-treatment and its consequences.
http://prostatecancerinfolink.net/2013/08/07/new-six-point-statement-about-psa-testing-issued-at-pcwc/
Posted on August 7, 2013 by Sitemaster
According to a report on the Bloomberg.com web site, attendees meeting at the Prostate Cancer World Congress (PCWC) in Melbourne, Australia have issued a new, six-point consensus statement about the use of the PSA test in the initial detection of prostate cancer.
The key points of the consensus statement are as follows:
•For men aged 50–69, there is evidence that PSA testing reduces the risk of metastatic prostate cancer and of death from prostate cancer by up to 30 percent and 21 percent, respectively.
•Prostate cancer diagnosis must be uncoupled from prostate cancer intervention through active surveillance of men with low-volume, low-risk prostate cancer.
•PSA testing should not be considered on its own but as part of a multivariable approach, including digital rectal examination, prostate volume, family history, ethnicity, and risk prediction models.
•Baseline PSA testing for men in their 40s is useful for predicting the future risk of prostate cancer, especially for those whose baseline PSA is in the highest centiles above the median
•Older men in good health with a life expectancy of more than 10 years should not be denied PSA testing on the basis of their age because a small proportion of older men may benefit from an early diagnosis of more aggressive forms of localized prostate cancer.
The “New” Prostate Cancer InfoLink concurs completely with this six-point statement. The critical issue will be whether the global urology community actually starts to act in accordance with these six points and proactively starts to help patients with clinically insignificant prostate cancer to avoid over-treatment and its consequences.
http://prostatecancerinfolink.net/2013/08/07/new-six-point-statement-about-psa-testing-issued-at-pcwc/
Friday 16 August 2013
UK-Graham Fulford Charitable Trust
Newsletter from the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust entitled Our First Nine Years!
And a link to their website:
And a link to their website:
Wednesday 14 August 2013
Prostate Cancer UK-The Football League Official Charity Partnership
The Football League Official Charity Partnership-Prostate Cancer UK
Monday 5 August 2013
LATEST NEWS AND FUTURE EVENTS
Latest News/Website Updates
Renal & Urology News July 2013 Issue
Urology Times August 2013Mediwatch Positions/Jobs
Future Events Events where Mediwatch are attending/exhibiting will be marked as so or updated,hopefully before the event is finished.More Events to add later
Mediwatch/Distributor Training Courses
Urodynamics Workshop WPB--- 23,24 Mar 2013
ARM Workshop Boston 31 May 2013
Urodynamics Workshop WPB 9,10 Nov 2013
Newsletters
Mediwatch Newsletter 2013 Q2
Mediwatch Newsletter 2012 Q1
Mediwatch Newsletter 2011 Q4
STUFF THAT MAYBE DID BUT NOW DOESN'T FIT IN WITH THE TITLE...
Wednesday 17 July 2013
Prostate Cancer UK
Prostate Cancer UK--The Summer issue of Progress: prostate cancer news and views is out now featuring an interview with athletics legend Colin Jackson, a feature on the PSA test and much more
Tuesday 16 July 2013
Canada-PSA still a powerful test
Re: Study finds prostate cancer to be far more widespread, July 15
Published on Mon Jul 15 2013
Published on Mon Jul 15 2013
The PSA is the only test we currently have to help diagnose prostate cancer. While there are controversies amongst the medical community over its value, a controversy that also exists for mammography, elevated PSA readings still serve as a powerful red flag for physicians to further investigate.
Recent stats by the Canadian Cancer Society estimate that in 2013, approximately 23,600 Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, and about 3,900 will die from the disease. Prostate cancer is 90 per cent curable when detected early, so what, or who, are we missing?
Perhaps an informed patient-physician discussion that may lead to the decision to perform a PSA test and digital rectal exam (DRE) could prevent many of the estimated 3,900 deaths this year — we don’t know.
We do know that the early warning signal provided by the PSA can’t happen if men choose to ignore their health and avoid doctors’ visits. An informed discussion with a patient’s family doctor is essential because it is based on individual medical history and personal risk factors for prostate cancer.
In an age of informed health care, this is one of the most powerful tools we have. Worried about prostate cancer? Know your risk. Talk to your doctor. Get informed.
Rocco Rossi, President and CEO, Prostate Cancer Canada
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/letters_to_the_editors/2013/07/15/psa_still_a_powerful_test.html
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/letters_to_the_editors/2013/07/15/psa_still_a_powerful_test.html
Monday 15 July 2013
Australia-Secure Future for Prostate Cancer Nurses
July 14th 2013
Federal Government helps secure future of prostate cancer nurses
Federal Government helps secure future of prostate cancer nurses
Following the announcement that cancer funding is a priority for the 2013-2014 Federal Budget, Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) is delighted that $7 million is being allocated to the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Program.
Federal Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek announced the additional funding this morning at the Kinghorn Cancer Centre in Sydney which will ultimately help to expand the specialist nursing program in the coming years.
PCFA, with the generous support of The Movember Foundation, launched the specialist service in May 2012 to address the needs of people living in metropolitan and regional Australia who have been affected by prostate cancer.
The Movember Foundation generously contributed $3.6 million to secure the program and recruit its first nurses.
The program has now placed twelve nurses in major metropolitan and regional hospitals in Queensland, New South Wales, ACT, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
Dr Anthony Lowe, Chief Executive of PCFA, commended Minister Plibersek for recognising the needs of prostate cancer survivors and delivering additional resources for Australia’s only prostate cancer specialist nursing program.
“This is a significant day for the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Program. PCFA is enormously grateful to The Movember Foundation for having the vision to support the pilot program which has enabled us to lay the foundations for the service. And we applaud the Federal Government for its tremendous efforts to help sustain such an important program. This will allow the recruitment of more nurses to help meet the needs of prostate cancer patients,” said Dr Lowe.
According to PCFA’s Director, Health & Education Programs, Julie Sykes, the program has shown promising results in its first year with many families already benefiting from the free service.
“A diagnosis of prostate cancer causes significant anxiety for men and their families. Men not only face the prospect of treatment, but also may have to live with long term side effects, and face prolonged surveillance programs requiring ongoing hospital visits, sometimes involving multiple specialists. The Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses are a central point of contact to help men navigate this process.”
"We are very excited about having these much-needed additional resources to take the program to the next level. The need for expert advice and ongoing support for those affected by a cancer diagnosis is well-recognised in all types of cancer," said Mrs Sykes.
Jason Hincks, Movember’s COO, has expressed his excitement over the Federal Government’s latest contribution.
"Movember is proud to be catalytic funder of initiatives that improve the lives of men, such as the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses Program. We are delighted that the Federal Government has taken the decision to invest in the program, thereby dramatically increasing the number of men with access to such a vital service. This is a proud day for the Movember movement and reinforces the power of the humble Mo," said Mr Hincks.
For further information about the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing program or to see which hospitals are hosting specialist nurses, visit www.prostate.org.au or call 1800 22 00 99.
Federal Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek announced the additional funding this morning at the Kinghorn Cancer Centre in Sydney which will ultimately help to expand the specialist nursing program in the coming years.
PCFA, with the generous support of The Movember Foundation, launched the specialist service in May 2012 to address the needs of people living in metropolitan and regional Australia who have been affected by prostate cancer.
The Movember Foundation generously contributed $3.6 million to secure the program and recruit its first nurses.
The program has now placed twelve nurses in major metropolitan and regional hospitals in Queensland, New South Wales, ACT, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
Dr Anthony Lowe, Chief Executive of PCFA, commended Minister Plibersek for recognising the needs of prostate cancer survivors and delivering additional resources for Australia’s only prostate cancer specialist nursing program.
“This is a significant day for the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Program. PCFA is enormously grateful to The Movember Foundation for having the vision to support the pilot program which has enabled us to lay the foundations for the service. And we applaud the Federal Government for its tremendous efforts to help sustain such an important program. This will allow the recruitment of more nurses to help meet the needs of prostate cancer patients,” said Dr Lowe.
According to PCFA’s Director, Health & Education Programs, Julie Sykes, the program has shown promising results in its first year with many families already benefiting from the free service.
“A diagnosis of prostate cancer causes significant anxiety for men and their families. Men not only face the prospect of treatment, but also may have to live with long term side effects, and face prolonged surveillance programs requiring ongoing hospital visits, sometimes involving multiple specialists. The Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses are a central point of contact to help men navigate this process.”
"We are very excited about having these much-needed additional resources to take the program to the next level. The need for expert advice and ongoing support for those affected by a cancer diagnosis is well-recognised in all types of cancer," said Mrs Sykes.
Jason Hincks, Movember’s COO, has expressed his excitement over the Federal Government’s latest contribution.
"Movember is proud to be catalytic funder of initiatives that improve the lives of men, such as the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses Program. We are delighted that the Federal Government has taken the decision to invest in the program, thereby dramatically increasing the number of men with access to such a vital service. This is a proud day for the Movember movement and reinforces the power of the humble Mo," said Mr Hincks.
For further information about the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing program or to see which hospitals are hosting specialist nurses, visit www.prostate.org.au or call 1800 22 00 99.
Tuesday 9 July 2013
USA-What has your doctor told you about PSA testing?
This is taken from The "New" Prostate Cancer InfoLink:
Posted on July 9, 2013 by Sitemaster
According to a recent article in the Annals of Family Medicine, about 64 percent of 3,400 men aged between 50 and 74 years of age who participated in a survey conducted in 2010 stated that they had never had a conversation with their doctor about the pros and cons of PSA testing.
There is already a nice summary of this paper available on the HealthDay web site, and we see little point in repeating the same information here. The full text of the original paper by Han et al. is also accessible on line.
The bottom line is perhaps best encapsulated in some comments made by Dr. Robert Ferrer, the vice chair for research in the department of family and community medicine at University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, as follows:
The article by Han et al. is, in fact, just one of four articles dealing with PSA testing that are available in this issue of the Annals for Family Medicine. They are, probably, all worth reading together as a group:
Link to website
Posted on July 9, 2013 by Sitemaster
According to a recent article in the Annals of Family Medicine, about 64 percent of 3,400 men aged between 50 and 74 years of age who participated in a survey conducted in 2010 stated that they had never had a conversation with their doctor about the pros and cons of PSA testing.
There is already a nice summary of this paper available on the HealthDay web site, and we see little point in repeating the same information here. The full text of the original paper by Han et al. is also accessible on line.
The bottom line is perhaps best encapsulated in some comments made by Dr. Robert Ferrer, the vice chair for research in the department of family and community medicine at University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, as follows:
- Doctors have “a duty to help patients understand in situations where there are competing benefits and harms.”
- “The PSA decision is no more complex than many other health care decisions.”
- The medical profession needs to find ways to educate patients even if doctor visits are brief and cluttered with other tasks.
- Clinicians have a responsibility to help patients make decisions consistent with their preferences.
The article by Han et al. is, in fact, just one of four articles dealing with PSA testing that are available in this issue of the Annals for Family Medicine. They are, probably, all worth reading together as a group:
- Han PJK, et al. “National evidence on the use of shared decision making in prostate-specific antigen screening” is the article previously referred to above
- Feng B, et al. “Physician communication regarding prostate cancer screening: analysis of unannounced standardized patient visits” is another study looking at the use of how physicians used a web-based tool to discuss PSA testing with their patients.
- Wilkes MS,. et al. “Pairing physician education with patient activation to improve shared decisions in prostate cancer screening: a cluster randomized controlled trial” provides data from a study designed to assess one way to improve the shared decision-making process between doctors and patients.
- Ferrer RM, Gill LM “Shared decision making, contextualized” is an editorial that offers insights into whether the primary care community is really convinced that “shared decision making” is an operating principle that must be fully accepted and acted on by most primary care doctors today.
Link to website
Monday 8 July 2013
The 100th Tour de France
The route
Running from Saturday June 29th to Sunday July 21th 2013, the 100th Tour de France will be made up of 21 stages and will cover a total distance of 3,404 kilometres.
Running from Saturday June 29th to Sunday July 21th 2013, the 100th Tour de France will be made up of 21 stages and will cover a total distance of 3,404 kilometres.
Wednesday 3 July 2013
LATEST NEWS AND FUTURE EVENTS
Latest News/Website Updates
Renal & Urology News July 2013 Issue
Renal & Urology News June 2013 Issue
Renal & Urology News May 2013 Issue
Urology Times July 2013Mediwatch Positions/Jobs
Future Events Events where Mediwatch are attending/exhibiting will be marked as so or updated,hopefully before the event is finished.More Events to add later
Mediwatch/Distributor Training Courses
Urodynamics Workshop WPB--- 23,24 Mar 2013
ARM Workshop Boston 31 May 2013
Urodynamics Workshop WPB 9,10 Nov 2013
Newsletters
Mediwatch Newsletter 2013 Q2
Mediwatch Newsletter 2012 Q1
Mediwatch Newsletter 2011 Q4
STUFF THAT MAYBE DID BUT NOW DOESN'T FIT IN WITH THE TITLE...
Friday 28 June 2013
USA-Early Detection of PC (AUA)
Whether you agree with the recent AUA guidelines or not there is quite a lot of information
on this page that might be of interest(click on link at BOP for better view):
On May 3, 2013, the American Urological Association (AUA) released a new Clinical Guideline on the Early Detection of Prostate Cancer. The new guideline, which addresses screening in asymptomatic men of average risk of prostate cancer, updates the Association's Best Practice Statement on Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), originally released in 2009. The following tools are available to help the health care community and the public better understand and implement the guideline:
•Frequently Asked Questions about the 2013 AUA Guideline on Early Detection of Prostate Cancer [pdf]
•"Is Prostate Cancer Screening Right for You?" Wall Chart [pdf] (Larger display version can be ordered in quantities of up to 50 per month from the Product Store.)
•"Is Prostate Cancer Screening Right for You?" Brochure [pdf] (Order up to 50 per month from the Product Store.)
•"What Men Should Know about Prostate Screening" Fact Sheet [pdf]
•"Is PSA Screening Right for Me?" Decision Tool/Checklist [pdf]
•"To Test or Not to Test for Prostate Cancer: A Shared Decision" Patient Fact Booklet [pdf] The following videos are also available
•Video: Is Prostate Cancer Screening Right for You? Dr. H. Ballentine Carter talks to patients about prostate cancer screening.
•AUA2013 Plenary Session Webcast [summary presentation]
•AUA2013 Panel Discussion Webcast (includes Panel Chair Dr. H. Ballentine Carter, Practice Guidelines Committee Chair Dr. J. Stuart Wolf, Jr. and Health Policy Chair Dr. David F. Penson)
•AUA TV Guideline Segment with Panel Chair H. Ballentine Carter
http://www.auanet.org/advnews/psa-testing-toolkit.cfm
On May 3, 2013, the American Urological Association (AUA) released a new Clinical Guideline on the Early Detection of Prostate Cancer. The new guideline, which addresses screening in asymptomatic men of average risk of prostate cancer, updates the Association's Best Practice Statement on Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), originally released in 2009. The following tools are available to help the health care community and the public better understand and implement the guideline:
•Frequently Asked Questions about the 2013 AUA Guideline on Early Detection of Prostate Cancer [pdf]
•"Is Prostate Cancer Screening Right for You?" Wall Chart [pdf] (Larger display version can be ordered in quantities of up to 50 per month from the Product Store.)
•"Is Prostate Cancer Screening Right for You?" Brochure [pdf] (Order up to 50 per month from the Product Store.)
•"What Men Should Know about Prostate Screening" Fact Sheet [pdf]
•"Is PSA Screening Right for Me?" Decision Tool/Checklist [pdf]
•"To Test or Not to Test for Prostate Cancer: A Shared Decision" Patient Fact Booklet [pdf] The following videos are also available
•Video: Is Prostate Cancer Screening Right for You? Dr. H. Ballentine Carter talks to patients about prostate cancer screening.
•AUA2013 Plenary Session Webcast [summary presentation]
•AUA2013 Panel Discussion Webcast (includes Panel Chair Dr. H. Ballentine Carter, Practice Guidelines Committee Chair Dr. J. Stuart Wolf, Jr. and Health Policy Chair Dr. David F. Penson)
•AUA TV Guideline Segment with Panel Chair H. Ballentine Carter
http://www.auanet.org/advnews/psa-testing-toolkit.cfm
Saturday 22 June 2013
Tuesday 11 June 2013
UK-Father's Day film
One gang, one plan, one big problem.
A man dies every hour and they all have to face up to it.Joe wants out but the Don won't take no for an answer. Carl lays a plan to use Alison as the bait. Will it work, or will Joe walk away?
Father's Day is a dark mini-drama with a twist. It's the brainchild of actor Neil Stuke, and also stars Ray Winstone, Charles Dance, John Simm, Tamzin Outhwaite, Cyril Nri and Stuart Laing.
Find out more, this Father's Day
The film airs on ITV4 Sunday night at 11.15pm, capping a week of activity by ITV and Prostate Cancer UK to raise awareness of a disease that is underfunded and poorly understood. If you can't tune in on Sunday, check this page on Monday to watch the film.Join our Stand By Your Man pledge to talk to the men in your life about prostate cancer.
Find out what else you can do to make a difference this Father's Day.
Tuesday 4 June 2013
SPOTLIGHT-Prostate Cancer UK (Registered Charity)
I thought these videos would be of general interest and highlight this charity along with a mark of respect to John Anderson:
Mr John Anderson (1953 - 2013)
Mr John Anderson (1953 - 2013)
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT-URODYNAMICS & CLINIC RANGE
Ideal for hospitals and research institutions performing comprehensive urodynamics
The Clinic system performs urodynamics studies with Sensic or Duet software. With medical grade hardware and a high quality computer it offers the best specification system.
Features:
- Medical-grade touchscreen
- Custom trolley including printer
- 4 pressure channels & 1 channel of raw or average EMG
- Smooth 8-roller infusion pump
- Artifact-resistant spinning disk uroflow
- Compatible with air-charged, water-filled or electronic catheters
- Automatic motorized puller can be added for precise and repeatable catheter retraction for Urethral Pressure Profiles
Upgrades:
Monday 3 June 2013
Mediwatch PLC Half Yearly Report
3rd June 2013
Interim Results for the six months to 30 April 2013
Mediwatch plc ("Mediwatch", "the Company" or "the Group", AIM: MDW), the innovative urological diagnostic company, is pleased to publish its interim results for the six months ended 30 April 2013.
Financial Highlights
-- Sales revenues of GBP4,911,000 (H1 2012: GBP5,084,000)
-- Gross Margin increases by GBP35,000 despite lower sales
-- Operating Profit of GBP161,000 (H1 2012 GBP78,000)
-- EBITDA of GBP311,000 (H1 2012: GBP245,000)
-- Profit before Taxation up 210% at GBP121,000 (H1 2012: GBP39,000)
Operational Highlights
-- Successful launch of New Clinic+ Urodynamics system, NANO Portable UDX system, Mediwatch Procedure Couch and Venus Pelvic Floor device, which were well received at the European Association of Urology annual conference and exhibition in Milan in April and the American Urological Association annual conference and exhibition in San Diego in May
-- Restructuring of UK sales to deliver the same effectiveness with lower cost
-- New distribution contracts signed in the USA
-- Strong sales growth of capital goods in the USA
-- New Distributors signed in Latin America
-- PSAwatch is continuing positively with potential for large scale work-place screening
-- Successful ISO 13485:2003 and CMDCAS renewal
-- Regulatory approvals in China and Latin America are in progress
Omer Karim, Mediwatch Chairman commented
"The Board is encouraged with the results for the first half of the 2013 financial year; in particular it is pleasing to see that the cost reductions have firmly benefited the bottom line. With new product launches well underway and more to come later in the year; the Group is positioned for a positive second half""
**********************************************************
"Editors 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 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.
Overview
Whilst overall sales have been flat compared to last year the cost reductions made both in product cost of sales leading to higher gross margin as well as in lower selling and administration expenses has resulted in a profit before tax increase of 210% over the 2012 half year.
Mediwatch's vision for the future is to develop affordable equipment for the treatment of conditions in its targeted clinical areas. The new product launches planned for 2013 have started well. The first of these a new urodynamic range of Clinic and Encompass, the new Nano, a new procedure couch and the tablet Portaflow were well received at European Association of Urology meeting in Milan in April and the American Urologists Association annual conference and exhibition in San Diego in May. There is more to come later in the year.
Trading
In the six month period to 30 April 2013, Group turnover was GBP4.9 million, (H1 2012: GBP5.1 million). The Group has seen the continuing effects of the US economy emerging from the global slowdown ahead of other markets with the US business showing good growth in revenues and it now accounts for some 55% (51% H2 2012) of Group revenues. Revenue in the UK (which services Europe and the Rest of the world) has declined and, following the failed attempt to partner with Genesis in an attempt to improve these sales, the UK sales team has been restructured to reduce cost with minimal impact on the team's effectiveness and the UK profitability has been enhanced. The product mix experienced during the first half of the 2013 financial year was also similar to that experienced in the first half of 2012.
The Group achieved an EBITDA of GBP311,000 for the six months to 30 April 2013 (H1 2012: GBP245,000). Profit is very slightly ahead of the Board's expectations at this stage.
Cash flow was down due to increasing working capital requirement in the USA from the increasing sales. Additional debt funding has also been taken on in the UK to support the Research and Development effort.
UK, Europe and ROW Operations
Highlights from the UK operations include:
-- On budget performance in profit despite lower sales
-- PSAwatch continues to gain momentum
-- Restructuring of UK sales to deliver the same effectiveness with lower cost
-- Successful ISO 13485:2003 and CMDCAS renewal
US Operations
Highlights from the US operations include:
-- Strong sales growth, 13% increase on the first half of 2012
-- Gross Margin percentage higher than last year
-- Savings on selling and administration expenses over 2012
-- New distribution contracts signed
-- Strong sales growth of capital goods
-- New Distributor agreements signed in Latin America and Canada
Research and Development
Expenditure on research and development, including capitalised costs, was GBP263,000 (H1 2012: GBP363,000) during the six months to 30 April 2013. The main spend being on:
-- Development of a new cart system
-- Upgrade of product software to latest standards
-- Producing the products which were launched at the European Association of Urology annual conference and exhibition in Milan in April and the American Urologists Association annual conference and exhibition in San Diego in May
Management and employees
The Board would like to take this opportunity to again thank all employees for their hard work and contribution in achieving the continuing success of the business.
Current trading and outlook
The Group is currently trading just above management's budgets and we expect to meet market expectations for the year.
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4. PRESS RELEASE
Copies of this report will not be issued to shareholders but will be available for download from www.mediwatch.com. If you would like to receive a hard copy of the interim report please contact the Mediwatch offices on +44 (0)1788 547 888 to request a copy.
Full report from link below: added soon
Interim Results for the six months to 30 April 2013
Mediwatch plc ("Mediwatch", "the Company" or "the Group", AIM: MDW), the innovative urological diagnostic company, is pleased to publish its interim results for the six months ended 30 April 2013.
Financial Highlights
-- Sales revenues of GBP4,911,000 (H1 2012: GBP5,084,000)
-- Gross Margin increases by GBP35,000 despite lower sales
-- Operating Profit of GBP161,000 (H1 2012 GBP78,000)
-- EBITDA of GBP311,000 (H1 2012: GBP245,000)
-- Profit before Taxation up 210% at GBP121,000 (H1 2012: GBP39,000)
Operational Highlights
-- Successful launch of New Clinic+ Urodynamics system, NANO Portable UDX system, Mediwatch Procedure Couch and Venus Pelvic Floor device, which were well received at the European Association of Urology annual conference and exhibition in Milan in April and the American Urological Association annual conference and exhibition in San Diego in May
-- Restructuring of UK sales to deliver the same effectiveness with lower cost
-- New distribution contracts signed in the USA
-- Strong sales growth of capital goods in the USA
-- New Distributors signed in Latin America
-- PSAwatch is continuing positively with potential for large scale work-place screening
-- Successful ISO 13485:2003 and CMDCAS renewal
-- Regulatory approvals in China and Latin America are in progress
Omer Karim, Mediwatch Chairman commented
"The Board is encouraged with the results for the first half of the 2013 financial year; in particular it is pleasing to see that the cost reductions have firmly benefited the bottom line. With new product launches well underway and more to come later in the year; the Group is positioned for a positive second half""
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"Editors 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 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.
Overview
Whilst overall sales have been flat compared to last year the cost reductions made both in product cost of sales leading to higher gross margin as well as in lower selling and administration expenses has resulted in a profit before tax increase of 210% over the 2012 half year.
Mediwatch's vision for the future is to develop affordable equipment for the treatment of conditions in its targeted clinical areas. The new product launches planned for 2013 have started well. The first of these a new urodynamic range of Clinic and Encompass, the new Nano, a new procedure couch and the tablet Portaflow were well received at European Association of Urology meeting in Milan in April and the American Urologists Association annual conference and exhibition in San Diego in May. There is more to come later in the year.
Trading
In the six month period to 30 April 2013, Group turnover was GBP4.9 million, (H1 2012: GBP5.1 million). The Group has seen the continuing effects of the US economy emerging from the global slowdown ahead of other markets with the US business showing good growth in revenues and it now accounts for some 55% (51% H2 2012) of Group revenues. Revenue in the UK (which services Europe and the Rest of the world) has declined and, following the failed attempt to partner with Genesis in an attempt to improve these sales, the UK sales team has been restructured to reduce cost with minimal impact on the team's effectiveness and the UK profitability has been enhanced. The product mix experienced during the first half of the 2013 financial year was also similar to that experienced in the first half of 2012.
The Group achieved an EBITDA of GBP311,000 for the six months to 30 April 2013 (H1 2012: GBP245,000). Profit is very slightly ahead of the Board's expectations at this stage.
Cash flow was down due to increasing working capital requirement in the USA from the increasing sales. Additional debt funding has also been taken on in the UK to support the Research and Development effort.
UK, Europe and ROW Operations
Highlights from the UK operations include:
-- On budget performance in profit despite lower sales
-- PSAwatch continues to gain momentum
-- Restructuring of UK sales to deliver the same effectiveness with lower cost
-- Successful ISO 13485:2003 and CMDCAS renewal
US Operations
Highlights from the US operations include:
-- Strong sales growth, 13% increase on the first half of 2012
-- Gross Margin percentage higher than last year
-- Savings on selling and administration expenses over 2012
-- New distribution contracts signed
-- Strong sales growth of capital goods
-- New Distributor agreements signed in Latin America and Canada
Research and Development
Expenditure on research and development, including capitalised costs, was GBP263,000 (H1 2012: GBP363,000) during the six months to 30 April 2013. The main spend being on:
-- Development of a new cart system
-- Upgrade of product software to latest standards
-- Producing the products which were launched at the European Association of Urology annual conference and exhibition in Milan in April and the American Urologists Association annual conference and exhibition in San Diego in May
Management and employees
The Board would like to take this opportunity to again thank all employees for their hard work and contribution in achieving the continuing success of the business.
Current trading and outlook
The Group is currently trading just above management's budgets and we expect to meet market expectations for the year.
****************************************************
4. PRESS RELEASE
Copies of this report will not be issued to shareholders but will be available for download from www.mediwatch.com. If you would like to receive a hard copy of the interim report please contact the Mediwatch offices on +44 (0)1788 547 888 to request a copy.
Full report from link below: added soon
Sunday 2 June 2013
Mediwatch-Corporate News
Announcements
AUA San Diego May 2013
The American Urology Association congress was amazing. The new graphics, branding, and display features for our expanded booth created a wonderful way to showcase and present products. Although the layout of the convention floor led to a slow steady stream of doctors, we actually generated 25% more leads this year than last, and an estimated over 50% of the leads were generated with 15+ minute conversations, meaning that we had time to give detailed presentations.
We showed off the brand new Clinic system for Urodynamics and Anorectal Manometry, the new Mediwatch powered procedure chair, and the soon to be launched Nano system, all of which generated a great deal of excitement and interest. Each year we aim to make the AUA show more successful, and we feel that this year was an excellent result.
Of course we've already started planning for the 2014 congress in Orlando, Florida, with an even larger booth to show off our forthcoming products.
EAU Milan March 2013
The launch of the new products was very well received by both doctors and distributors alike – We exhibited the new Clinic system, Nano Portable unit Urology couch, Portaflow Tablet Flowmeter, Venus Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation software and the Catscan Bladder Scanner, together with the Urodyn+ and our range of Disposables.
During the exhibition we met with a number of our distributors from around the world – Extensive discussions were held with them and a delegation of doctors from Libya were given some “on the spot” training by Anders Pedersen. In addition we met with many doctors from around Europe and the Middle East, with specific enquiries coming from the UK for the purchase of equipment.
We also were asked to participate and provide the only Urodynamics system, Clinic with Sensic, for the official EAU Urodynamics training course, attended by 40 doctors – This course was run by the Bristol Urology Institute, one of the most well-recognised groups in Europe.
To cap an all round successful exhibition, we learned that Omer Karim, our Chairman, was awarded a prize for “Innovative Surgery in Urology” – Congratulations Omer.
ASCRS Phoenix April 2013
The ASCRS meeting went very well this year, as Mediwatch was able to show off several new systems, including the new Clinic+ for Anorectal Manometry, incorporating a new Pudendal Nerve Stimulation module, along with the Venus Biofeedback system. We also had a 360 degree colorectal ultrasound scanner on the stand as a concept for future development. There was a strong interest from both American and International physicians in our product line, leading to nearly double the leads being taken compared to last year.
AUA San Diego May 2013
The American Urology Association congress was amazing. The new graphics, branding, and display features for our expanded booth created a wonderful way to showcase and present products. Although the layout of the convention floor led to a slow steady stream of doctors, we actually generated 25% more leads this year than last, and an estimated over 50% of the leads were generated with 15+ minute conversations, meaning that we had time to give detailed presentations.
We showed off the brand new Clinic system for Urodynamics and Anorectal Manometry, the new Mediwatch powered procedure chair, and the soon to be launched Nano system, all of which generated a great deal of excitement and interest. Each year we aim to make the AUA show more successful, and we feel that this year was an excellent result.
Of course we've already started planning for the 2014 congress in Orlando, Florida, with an even larger booth to show off our forthcoming products.
EAU Milan March 2013
The launch of the new products was very well received by both doctors and distributors alike – We exhibited the new Clinic system, Nano Portable unit Urology couch, Portaflow Tablet Flowmeter, Venus Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation software and the Catscan Bladder Scanner, together with the Urodyn+ and our range of Disposables.
During the exhibition we met with a number of our distributors from around the world – Extensive discussions were held with them and a delegation of doctors from Libya were given some “on the spot” training by Anders Pedersen. In addition we met with many doctors from around Europe and the Middle East, with specific enquiries coming from the UK for the purchase of equipment.
We also were asked to participate and provide the only Urodynamics system, Clinic with Sensic, for the official EAU Urodynamics training course, attended by 40 doctors – This course was run by the Bristol Urology Institute, one of the most well-recognised groups in Europe.
To cap an all round successful exhibition, we learned that Omer Karim, our Chairman, was awarded a prize for “Innovative Surgery in Urology” – Congratulations Omer.
ASCRS Phoenix April 2013
The ASCRS meeting went very well this year, as Mediwatch was able to show off several new systems, including the new Clinic+ for Anorectal Manometry, incorporating a new Pudendal Nerve Stimulation module, along with the Venus Biofeedback system. We also had a 360 degree colorectal ultrasound scanner on the stand as a concept for future development. There was a strong interest from both American and International physicians in our product line, leading to nearly double the leads being taken compared to last year.
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