Tag: Health and wellbeing

Men’s Health Week: A quarter of UK men have never checked themselves for testicular cancer 

  • 46% of 18–24-year-olds have never checked themselves
  • Nearly a quarter (23%) of men don’t recognise lumps as a symptom of cancer 
  • Leading GP gives her step-by-step guide on how to check for signs 

This week is Men’s Health Week, and research has found that, shockingly, more than a quarter (26%) of UK males have never checked themselves for signs of testicular cancer, while another 15% only check themselves once a year or less. 

A new study, commissioned by health experts at Livi, the online GP service, has found that surprising numbers of men are not checking themselves for testicular cancer, despite it becoming increasingly common, with an increase of 24% since the 90s1. 

Younger generations appear to be significantly less likely to check their testicles, with nearly half (46%) of 18–24-year-olds admitting that they had never checked themselves for cancer. This is particularly concerning as testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer amongst young men, particularly those in their early 30’s2. 

However, older generations appeared to be significantly more likely to check themselves. Those aged 25–34 years old were found to be the most likely, with only 21% stating they had never checked their testicles.  

The survey also revealed which signs of the cancer men are most likely to recognise, with over three quarters (77%) of men recognising lumps as a symptom, but only a third (34%) identifying heaviness in the scrotum and a difference in appearance between the testicles (33%) as potential signs. 

The 5 most recognisable signs of testicular cancer 

1.       Lumps – 77% knew this was a sign 

2.       Enlargement of testicles – 58% 

3.       Pain or discomfort in testicles – 46% 

4.       Heaviness in scrotum – 34% 

5.       Difference in appearance between testicles – 33% 

Additionally, many men incorrectly identified unrelated symptoms as signs of cancer, including sexual impotence (18%) and discomfort in the penis (21%). 

Dr Rhianna McClymont, Lead GP at Livi, provides a step-by-step guide for checking for signs of testicular cancer: 

·       The best time to check yourself is during, or after a warm bath or shower. This helps to relax the testicles and make them easier for you to examine. 

·       Hold your testicle in your palm and gently examine each one with your thumb and forefinger.  

·       You’re looking for any type of abnormality, or difference in feel. Your testicles should feel smooth and firm, but not hard. 

·       Make sure you check yourself regularly and if you notice any lumps, or hardness in the testicles, get yourself checked by a medical professional as soon as possible. 

Dr. McClymont adds: “Testicular cancer, like any form of cancer, can strike at any age, but it’s more common in younger people, so we recommend beginning checks in puberty.  

“If you notice any lumps or difference in the feel of your testicles, then it’s important to speak to a doctor to get checked out immediately. These symptoms are not a guarantee you have cancer, but they can be indicators, so it’s always vital to see a medical professional if you spot any signs.” 

For more information on how to spot testicular cancer, visit: https://www.livi.co.uk/your-health/testicular-cancer-how-to-spot-the-signs/ 

Appeal: Please help stop harrassment outside abortion facilities

The British Pregnancy Advisory Service is appealing to the public to support a Members Bill to outlaw protests outside abortion clinics.

Details below:

How-to-respond-BPAS-and-Back-off-Scotland-guideDownload

Please respond to the Scottish Government Consultation on buffer zones.

Sending a response only takes 10 minutes.

The DEADLINE to respond is 10th August 2022 Gillian Mackay MSP has launched a Private Member’s Bill for Safe Access Zones, or buffer zones, outside abortion facilities across Scotland.

WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT.

This is a really important step in the move for buffer zones. You can access the consultation here www.bufferzones.scot Y

ou can access a ‘suggested response’ guide here https://images.bpas-campaigns.org/…/How-to-respond-BPAS…

Please share widely. We need as many people as possible to submit a response. Help make buffer zones a reality.

RNIB Scotland: It is more important than ever that people with diabetes attend their regular eye-examinations

As the covid crisis eases, the national sight loss charity RNIB Scotland is emphasising it is more important than ever that people with diabetes attend their regular eye-examinations now that these have resumed.

During Diabetes Week this week [June 13-19th], the charity is pointing out that diabetic retinopathy, a complication of the condition, is a leading cause of sight loss among working-age Scots.

Director James Adams said: “Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes, can affect the small blood vessels at the back of the eye and is a major cause of sight loss among working-age adults. But damage to vision can be arrested if detected early enough.

“While it’s possible that diabetes won’t cause any changes to your vision, the most effective thing you can do to prevent sight loss is to go to your retinal screening appointments and eye examinations, where safety measures are in place.”

Each year, 5,500 patients with diabetes in Scotland need to undergo further imaging or see an NHS eye specialist for the first time due to worsening in their retinopathy.

Angela Clelland, 47, from Inverness received a diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy during lockdown.

“Getting diagnosed was very, very scary,” Angela said, “because I was isolated in the pandemic. If you are on your own, it affects everything from simple things like making a cup of tea, having the confidence to go out, or not being able to check your diabetes because you can’t read the monitor.

“You need to take your eye health seriously. You need to make sure that you are going for your eye health checks. Even with the slightest change, go to your optician. As things were delayed due to COVID, I would urge anybody who is maybe late or due an appointment to go and make one, because the effect on your life if you don’t go and something happens is devastating.”

There are 3.5 million people in the UK who have been diagnosed diabetes, and an estimated 500,000 people living with undiagnosed diabetes. Within 20 years of diagnosis, nearly all people with type 1 diabetes and almost two-thirds of people with type 2 diabetes will have developed some form of diabetic retinopathy. People with diabetes are also at increased risk of glaucoma and cataracts.

People from a South Asian or African-Caribbean background are two to four times more likely to get type 2 diabetes. They tend to develop it at a younger age which means they live with the condition for longer.

The risk of complications increases with the length of time people have the condition. It is not known why this is the case, but it is likely to be a mixture of genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

* If you’re worried about your vision, contact RNIB’s Sight Loss Advice Service on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk/eyehealth. 

For more information on the NHS Scotland eye-screening service, visit:

https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/diabetes/diabetic-retinopathy.

Healthy Heart Tip: Bike Week

Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by the Health Promotion and Education Team at Heart Research UK

BikeWeekUK begins on 6th June and is the perfect opportunity to become healthier by bike. Cycling regularly can help to lower our risk of developing heart disease and improve our overall health and wellbeing.

Here are some tips to help you get on your bike this summer:

Cycle to work

Cycling to work can be a time-efficient way to fit exercise into your daily routine. It can even benefit your productivity at work whilst also improving the health of your heart.

Cycle together

Cycling can be a great way to meet up with friends, or make new ones, and be active together. Evidence shows that we are more likely to complete exercise when doing so with a partner or in a group.

Additionally, we work physically harder when surrounded by others than when exercising alone. Look up your local cycle groups to get started!

Starting Slow

If you don’t yet feel confident or fit enough for a long bike ride, why not start small by going on some shorter bike rides, and gradually increasing your distance or time. This will build your confidence and fitness before you tackle a longer route.

Use Bike Week as the perfect starting point of pedalling your way to a healthy heart!

For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at:

www.heartresearch.org.uk/healthy-tips.

To help keep your heart healthy, why not try out some of our Healthy Heart recipes from our website: 

https://heartresearch.org.uk/heart-research-uk-recipes-2/.

Or have a look through our Healthy Heart cookbook filled with recipes from top chefs, celebrities and food bloggers:

https://heartresearch.org.uk/heart-research-uk-cookbook/.

Welcome back, MoonWalk Scotland!

The MoonWalk Scotland made its long-awaited comeback in Edinburgh last night (Sat 11th June).

Women and men wearing brightly coloured bras – many decorated with this year’s “Your Hero” theme – set off from Holyrood Park for this year’s MoonWalk, the first “live” event since 2019.

Those taking part included “Team Holyboobs”, led by Christina McKelvie MSP, who has recently been treated for breast cancer (below). 

Over the last 15 years, this iconic night-time event, organised by breast cancer charity Walk the Walk, has raised almost £22 million. The money is granted across Scotland, to help support those living with cancer.

During the pandemic, Walk the Walk gave £20,000 to the charity Cancer Support Scotland, to help fund its online services.

Previous grants have been made to Maggie’s Centres in Glasgow, Forth Valley and Airdrie and to the Breast Cancer Unit at Edinburgh’s West General Hospital.

Funds have also been given to hospitals across Scotland to purchase Scalp Coolers – amazing machines which help many people undergoing chemotherapy to keep their hair. 

Monkeypox: What we know so far

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has published its first technical briefing on the ongoing monkeypox outbreak. The briefing shares UKHSA analysis with other public health investigators and academic partners.

This first publication includes updated epidemiological data, with evidence from anonymised detailed interviews with patients which are helping us to understand transmission and to determine how to target interventions.

Of the cases interviewed, 81% were known to be London residents and 99% were male. The median age of confirmed cases in the UK was 38 years old.

152 cases participated in more detailed questionnaires. In this data, 151 of the 152 men interviewed identified as gay, bisexual, or men who have sex with men, or reported same sex contact. Recent foreign travel, within 21 days prior to symptom onset, was reported by 75 cases, with 59 of these reporting travel within Europe.

We also share preliminary assessment of the genomic differences between the outbreak virus and previous monkeypox viruses. In any emerging infection outbreak we assess the virus or bacteria for any changes. We will be working to investigate the significance of the mutations identified so far to determine if they will have any impact on the virus’ behaviour

Dr Meera Chand, Director of Clinical and Emerging Infections, UKHSA said: “We are working, both in the UK and together with global partners, to progress the investigations that we need to help us better understand the virus, its transmission and the best use of mitigations such as vaccines and treatments. We use the new data rapidly to inform the public health response and we continue to work to reduce transmission. 

“We are grateful to all those who have come forward for testing and the patients who continue to help us understand the outbreak through participating in studies and investigations.”

UKHSA has identified a number of aspects of this outbreak which require further investigation. We will release the results of our ongoing investigations in subsequent technical briefings – these will be published regularly.

Life Without Communication

Stroke Association shares survey to mark Aphasia Awareness Month

The fear of being unable to communicate has been laid bare in a new survey of over 163 people across Scotland. Research conducted by the Stroke Association reveals that more than a third of the respondents (36%) can’t imagine living in a world where they couldn’t communicate. 

A world without communication is an everyday reality for the 350,000 stroke survivors like Tom Middlemass (61), from Edinburgh, in the UK living with aphasia – a communication disability, which is most commonly caused by stroke. 

The research has been carried out by the Stroke Association to mark Aphasia Awareness Month and to encourage stroke survivors living with aphasia to use the information and support that’s available from the charity so they can navigate the challenges aphasia brings. 

Aphasia can affect a person’s ability to speak, read, write and use numbers, but it does not affect intellect.

The charity’s latest survey also reveals people’s biggest fears if they lost their ability to communicate:

  • Over a fifth (23%) of people feared not being able to carry out everyday activities
  • Over a quarter (26%) of people feared how it would affect their relationships with family and loved ones                   
  • Around one in five people (23%) feared being lonely
  • 10% feared not being able to express their emotions
  • 6% feared losing their job.
  • 4% feared l losing their friends.

Tom Middlemass from Edinburgh had a stroke at the age of 52 in 2016.  He couldn’t move or speak at first. At the time, he had an overwhelming instinct to get up off the floor, but couldn’t make himself understood. 

Tom says: “It took three weeks for me to be understood properly and it was scary. I used a pen and paper at first to write down what I wanted to say and felt stupid not being able to get the words out. 

“Shopping was a challenge as I found numbers hard to understand.  I couldn’t socialise with friends, or go to the football with my daughters, I just felt embarrassed and unable to cope. Having relied on meeting in person and talking face to face, it was impossible to do so now.” 

Thankfully, Tom is now mobile and able to talk. He volunteers for the Stroke Association, which allows him to give hope to others. Tom believes that there can be life after stroke and it can be good again. 

He adds: “I would encourage everyone with aphasia to seek help. Find information, get advice and use the tools and services which charities like the Stroke Association provide, to help you with your recovery.”

The charity’s survey also highlighted how vital communication is to our everyday lives:

  • Over half (52%) of people said they rely most on meeting face to face or talking in person 
  • Just under one in five people (19%) rely on email, text or instant messaging
  • Under one in ten (7%) depend upon talking on the phone 
  • Under one in ten (6%) rely most on reading for work or leisure.

For many stroke survivors with aphasia, these commonly used communication tools are either a challenge or impossible to use.

John Watson, Associate Director Scotland of the Stroke Association said: “Aphasia is incredibly common after stroke, affecting one in three stroke survivors.  It robs you of the ability to talk to loved ones, to do everyday tasks such as go shopping, use public services or get online – things we all take for granted. People with aphasia often feel lonely and isolated too, which can impact their relationships.

“But there is hope and the brain can recover and adapt. Stroke survivors with aphasia can make improvements as well as developing alternative ways of communicating.

“Get in touch with the Stroke Association to find out how we can help. We’re here to support people with aphasia to rebuild their lives and to regain their confidence and independence.

“Our ‘Getting Online for People with Aphasia‘ guide equips you with the skills you need to get online, keep in touch with family and friends and to connect with the stroke community. Support is also available through our stroke support groups, My Stroke Guide and communication support service.

“It’s also incredibly important for the public to be aware of what aphasia is, the things to look out for and to learn strategies that might help those with aphasia living in their community. We all have a part to play in adapting our communication to be inclusive for all.”

If you or someone you know is living with aphasia, visit stroke.org.uk/aphasia for information and support.

The ‘Getting Online for People with Aphasia’ guide is available at: www.stroke.org.uk/aphasiaonline 

My Stroke Guide is available at: https://www.stroke.org.uk/finding-support/my-stroke-guide

Spotlight brings young adults from Tower Hamlets to attend Fife Platinum Jubilee Youth Spectacular

A group of young adults from Tower Hamlets are set to represent East London’s young people in the opening flag-waving event of the Platinum Jubilee Youth Spectacular at St Ninians, taking place near Kelty in Fife.  

TV presenter, magician and comedian, Stephen Mulhern, will host the event, which aims to “inspire youth” .

The Youth Spectacular, which is part of Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, is taking place on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th June. The amazing young talent who are participating will be performing in a newly constructed arena on the site of the former opencast mine at St Ninians.

The group from London, involving 11 young adults, aged 16-20, and 5 youth workers are from the Spotlight Youth Centre, a creative arts youth service based in London’s Tower Hamlets.

Around 4,000 young people aged 11-19 are engaged each year and come to the youth centre to make friends and for advice, guidance and support. Spotlight also runs a number of creative programmes including photography, music, fashion and visual arts, as well as an active programme including fitness and nutrition, sport and exercise.

It also has an in-house young-person only GP service, HealthSpot.

The group are part of the centre’s inspirational programme, focusing on youth leadership and volunteering. They are also members of Poplar HARCA’a Youth Youth Empowerment Board, which feeds into the governance of the award-winning housing association in East London.

While in Scotland the group will participate in outdoor activities at Willowgate Activity Centre in Perthshire, take part in a mini-Highland Games and visit some Edinburgh attractions, including Edinburgh Castle.

The Platinum Jubilee event is sponsored by Community Interest Company (CIC) National Pride UK, which jointly owns the site and is planning its future development.  The event is being organised by local events manager, Michael Boyle and the former Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo impresario, Brigadier Sir Melville Jameson.

Performers confirmed to date include:

·         The Imps Motorcycle Display Team, the world’s foremost youth display team

·         Katie Robertson, the award-winning ‘Wheeled Piper’

·         Massed pipes and drums from Scottish schools

·         Massed military bands

·         The musical skills of the massed army cadet force brass bands

·         Highland dancing displays and other dancers

·         The world-famous Red Hot Chilli Pipers

Harry Forshaw, Youth Volunteering Coordinator for Spotlight, said: “As a group representing young people from the east end of London we are incredibly excited and proud to be participating in this truly inspiring event. 

“Spotlight provides facilities that all young people can access on a non-exclusive basis and our youth-led centre demonstrates what young people can achieve when they are given the chance to have their voices heard.

“We are honoured to be participating in the opening event, and what we have achieved will hopefully serve to inspire other young people.”

Irene Bisset, Chair of National Pride UK, said: “We’re delighted that this group of fantastic young adults from Spotlight are attending and participating in our event.

“With our aim being to showcase the tremendous talents of young people, inspiring both this and future generations, we are honoured that they have taken the time to come and participate.

“We look forward to welcoming them to St Ninians for a great weekend of fun and can hopefully leave them with fond memories of their time in Scotland.”

Tickets are available to buy at: https://platinumjubileeyouthspectacular.co.uk/get-tickets.html

Edinburgh’s MIND BE KIND Festival

First MIND BE KIND Wellbeing Festival launching in Edinburgh 18th and 19th June 2022 at Ross Bandstand, Princes Street Gardens

www.mindbekind.org

With people’s concerns about wellbeing being at an all-time high, a new two-day Festival MIND BE KIND, will be taking place at Edinburgh’s Princes Street’s Ross Bandstand on 18th and 19th June, focusing on wellbeing. 

This new social enterprise, MIND BE KIND, aims to raise awareness of wellbeing and help signpost ways of combating issues such as anxiety and isolation with workshops, stalls, and a concert. 

The event also aspires to support and motivate people to access wellbeing information, find more enjoyment and perhaps different more positive ways of coping with challenges, and has something for all ages at this family friendly event. Organisations such as Health in Mind and UpStart Scotland will be there to provide some help and information to support people with wellbeing matters.

Lynne Stanford, Fundraising Manager says “At Health in Mind we’re excited to be a part of the Mind Be Kind Festival. 

“It feels more important than ever to raise awareness of mental health, the things we can all put in place to keep well, and how to access the right services when we need them – and so it’s brilliant of the organisers to be bringing us all together.  

“Health in Mind services are free to access across Edinburgh, including our online information resource iThrive that includes a wide range of self-help materials. We look forward to seeing you at the Festival”. 

Tania Pramschufer, founder member of MIND BE KIND stresses the importance of care and kindness for oneself and others and noted: “The Festival is a chance for people to connect with practitioners, professionals, therapists and learn more about how to look after your own physical and mental wellbeing and ways to cope with anxiety and low mood.

“We believe that Edinburgh is a city of hospitality and friendship and that by organising something with kindness at its heart, will have a positive impact on our community.”

The concert will be hosted by amazing television presenter and Mind Be Kind ambassador Gail Porter. 

Commenting on the new Festival, celebrity presenter Gail Porter added: ”Being an Ambassador for MIND BE KIND is an absolute honour and a pleasure. Kindness is something that should be second nature. Unfortunately, it isn’t on everyone’s agenda these days. 

“An event, after all we have been through over the past few years, that is dedicated to kindness..is exactly what we all need. And… It’s in Edinburgh. Could it be anymore perfect? 

“Kindness, love, listening, talking, smiling, crying, sharing. It’s not that difficult. I can’t wait to come home. I can’t wait to be involved in such a wonderful event. And I’m more than happy if you want a hug. I do love a hug! 

Gail concluded: “Kindness… it’s very simple. It costs nothing and can change a person’s outlook. Or just give them that hope they need.”

Onstage events also include Laughter Yoga; Yoga with Jen McGregor, Zumba with Nadia Alkoc, Zumba with Ross MacPherson and numerous talks including inspirational speaker Mike Stevenson.

Performances from acts such as amazing newcomer and local act Rane Delyte, Dopesick Fly, The Rouse, Paul McDonald, Supa & Da Kryptonites, Demi McMahon, Tony Wright, and Manchester based rapper Conduit. Edinburgh based drumming group Pulse of the Place, The Well Happy Band and the amazing Got Soul Choir will also be performing over the two-day Festival.

Two local radio stations will be on hand to promote the event, SAM Radio (Scottish Autistic Media Radio) and Mix One radio, who will both be providing DJ’s.

Scran Academy and Punjabi Junction are also going to be there with amazing and delicious food to help refresh everyone’s mind, body, and soul. The MIND BE KIND team is also organising a raffle for people to have a chance at winning prizes.                                                                 

A GoFundMe page has been set up to cover some of the costs as the Festival is not run for profit but for the benefit of the our community:

:https://www.gofundme.com/f/mind-be-kind-festival

Mental Health Digital Resources: EVOC Information Session

The voluntary sector continues to face a range of challenges resulting in many staff & volunteers experiencing anxiety/sleep problems, etc.

Join us to find out about the digital therapeutics that @wearebighealth have created to help tackle these issues! Register:

https://bit.ly/3Q47uQZ

Join us to learn about digital help and support for your staff, board and volunteers, as well as the people and communities you support.

About this event

This event is hosted by EVOC, delivered in partnership with Big Health, the NHS Lothian Digital Interventions team and the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership.

The community and voluntary sector continues to face a range of challenges resulting in many staff, board members and volunteers experiencing anxiety, worry, low mood, sleep problems or stress – often while supporting people who are themselves experiencing poor mental health.

In this session you can find out more about digital therapeutics that are free to use and open to anyone, without the need for a referral:

  • Sleepio is a 6 week online program designed by sleep experts and based on cognitive and behavioral techniques.
  • Daylight is a clinically proven digital therapeutic that helps people gain control over their anxiety. After a two-minute quiz to discover their Anxiety Type, individuals receive personalized techniques to help manage it.
  • Silvercloud provides a range of psychoeducational modules on various topics, including managing stress, and supporting an anxious child or young person.

The event will take place on Zoom.

A reminder and the event link will be sent out after registration closes at 10am on Tue 21 Jun.