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Gift to urology research fund

The Halifax Urology Research Fund, based at Calderdale Royal Hospital, has received a generous donation from the Free Masons Prudence Lodge (number 219) in Todmorden. The lodge gave £1,500 to the research fund, which was raised by events throughout the year.

Karol Rogawski, consultant urological surgeon, said: “This generous donation helps to raise awareness of prostate cancer. The donation will provide funding for additional equipment and training for staff, resulting in a better service for local men.”

The Trust has provided a dedicated clinic for men with prostate problems for over a decade. The Prostate Assessment Clinic receives referrals from GPs for men who experience symptoms of prostate gland enlargement or/and prostate cancer. The service is led by a team of nurse specialists and consultant urologists.

Mr Rogawski, said: “The diagnosis of prostate cancer is distressing to any one however, seven out of 10 patients with newly diagnosed cancer will live beyond five years. Not all men require immediate treatment as a proportion of prostate cancers can be actively monitored; some men may need surgery or radiation therapy. It is important to say that the vast majority of prostate cancers are treatable and many patients go into remission lasting many years.”

Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in men and more than 35,000 men are diagnosed each year in the UK with 60% diagnosed in men above the age of 70 years.

The possible symptoms of prostate cancer include:
• Difficulties in urination including discomfort
• Blood in semen
• Unexplained backache or bone pain
• Anaemia, weight loss

Mr Rogawski suggests that men with these symptoms should visit their GP.