Movember – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Movember: Surgeon with cancer urges men to get checked

An award winning surgeon, who has dedicated his career to improving the lives of people with kidney stones, is now hoping to save lives by raising awareness of the impacts of prostate cancer.

Mr Gareth Jones, an Endourological surgeon with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, was recently recognised for his life changing work, which saw him bring new kidney stone operation practices to the West of Scotland while training new surgeons in modern procedures.

But now his attention is focused on helping to raise awareness about prostate cancer, a disease that his impacted him personally and affects one in eight men in the UK.

Gareth, 55, was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer in June 2021 and since has been very vocal about why men should ensure they are getting checked. With November a dedicated awareness raising month, through campaigns such as Movember, Gareth is urging as many men as possible to listen to advice as it could save their life.

The surgeon, who has worked at Glasgow’s Royal Infirmary since 2002, said: “It’s so vital that men get checked. It’s simple and relatively painless. If prostate cancer is caught early then you have so much more of a better chance of cure. Getting checked for prostate cancer should be front and centre when it comes to men’s health.

“For me, as a surgeon you sometimes think you can cope with most things but getting this news was very, very difficult. I had an accelerated diagnoses so it all happened very quickly. If I’m being honest I’m still processing it now. I have got stage four prostate cancer, so it’s all about managing it now.

“There are so many factors you don’t really consider or think about, there are the obvious physical impacts but there are so many psychological aspects to this too. I have been really well supported though my journey , by friends and colleagues , with the input of the palliative care team and psychologists at Maggie’s too.

“I’m not currently working, so what I have been doing recently is supporting the Prostate Cancer UK Scotland Hub with the view of helping out whenever I am able to. This involves raising awareness and looking for opportunities to get stands back in hospitals following the COVID-19 pandemic and also educate our partners in General Practice.”

As well as playing his part in raising awareness, Gareth has raised over £4,400 for the charity, covering over 180 miles, swimming, cycling, running and walking back in January.

The father of two, from Cambuslang, said: “I was looking to do some fundraising in January for lifesaving research and support for men and their families affected by prostate cancer.

“I planned to do the distance of a marathon over the month. But I got a bit carried away and did a bit more than that. I have a triathlon and Ironman history, so I decided I would do an iron man over the month. I ended up getting that finished within a week so I just carried on adding more to the challenge.

“I would meet friends and we’d cycle or do a bit of running. I remember one Friday going to the pool at Tollcross and completing a 1.9km swim. I also went on the heritage park in East Kilbride with my wife and friends and cycled at Whitelee Windfarm too. I travelled to Switzerland for work at one point and used that as an opportunity to walk down the mountains.”

Last month, Gareth was honoured by the British Association of Urological Surgeons with the inaugural Silver Ureteroscope Award, for his dedication to endourology training in Glasgow and the west of Scotland since his own training back in 1997.
Gareth received the award at the annual BAUS endourology meeting in Southampton and admits it all came as a bit of a shock.

He said: “I was really surprised to learn that I was going to be given the award as it’s the first time they have given it out, so I wasn’t even aware of it.

“When I was training I noticed that there was a need for advanced kidney stone operations and a more formal stone service in Glasgow and the West of Scotland so became really interested in learning all I could and passing that on to others.

“I didn’t really know how to respond to the award , it’s really humbling.”

Check your risk, or ask a man you know to check their risk of prostate cancer this Movember at prostatecanceruk.org/risk-checker.

Movember: GP reveals five things you should know about prostate cancer

One in eight UK men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime
Dr Rhianna McCylmont explains the main symptoms and treatment options

Movember aims to raise awareness of the key health issues impacting men, helping them to identify symptoms and get diagnosed whilst their conditions are still treatable.

One of the main focuses is prostate cancer, which is the most diagnosed form of cancer amongst men in the UK. One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime¹.

Below, Dr Rhianna McClymont, lead GP at the digital healthcare provider, Livi, reveals some of the key facts about the disease, including the main warning signs and what to do about them:

Who’s at risk?

The prostate is an organ that only men have, and its main function is to produce the white fluid which mixes with sperm to create semen.

Dr Rhianna said: “Although prostate cancer can affect men of any age, it’s most commonly diagnosed in older age groups, particularly over 50s.

“Research has also found that men of an African, or African-Caribbean descent are also more at risk from the cancer compared to men from other ethnicities.”

What can increase the risk of prostate cancer?

Dr Rhianna said: “There are various factors that can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, including family history. The risk increases if a male member of your family developed prostate cancer before the age of 60.

“Another factor which can increase the risk is obesity, with NHS information suggesting that obesity may be linked to an increased likelihood of the development of prostate cancer.”

What are the symptoms?

Dr Rhianna said: “Unfortunately, prostate cancer can often be symptomless, which is why it’s so important to have your prostate checked regularly as you get older.”

When symptoms do appear, particularly as the illness becomes more advanced, they can include:

Increased frequency in needing to urinate
Difficulty when starting to pee, or a weak flow
Feeling like your bladder hasn’t fully emptied
Feeling an urgent need to urinate

How is it tested?

Dr Rhianna said: “If you notice you have any symptoms related to prostate cancer, you might be offered a PSA, or Prostate Specific Antigen test. This is taken as a blood test and can indicate the presence of prostate cancer.

“Your GP will also suggest an examination of your prostate, which is undertaken through a rectal exam.

“If either or both of these tests indicate the possible presence of prostate cancer, then you will undertake an MRI scan to assess the prostate, and a biopsy will be used to officially diagnose the condition.”

What are the treatment options?

Dr Rhianna said: “Treatment of prostate cancer depends largely on the severity of the condition, and how far advanced it is, as well as other factors including whether it has spread to other areas of your body, and your general health.

“Treatment options are varied and include surgery to remove the prostate (a prostatectomy), radiotherapy, hormone therapy, or ‘watchful waiting’, where the cancer is considered to be relatively minor, and poses little threat of spreading, or developing further within the patient’s lifetime, so is left untreated but closely monitored.”

Dr Rhianna adds: “Movember has done a fantastic job of raising awareness of male-specific health conditions such as prostate cancer, and thankfully so, as it’s incredibly common, but often treatable if caught early enough.

“The good news is that whilst the condition is common amongst men and potentially very serious, most patients diagnosed with it do survive. This is why it’s so important for men to be aware of the signs and symptoms and understand the need to be checked as they get older.”

For more information about prostate cancer, visit:

https://www.livi.co.uk/your-health/prostate-cancer-a-doctors-guide/

Edinburgh cancer survivor launches charity Movember auction with John Pye

SCOTTISH student Stewart Morgan has launched an online charity event, in partnership with Bo’ness-based online auction house John Pye Auctions, to support Movember following his cancer diagnosis.

Stewart, 22, from Edinburgh, was diagnosed with testicular cancer just four days after his 21st birthday. However, since being given the ‘all clear’ he is campaigning to not only raise money but also to educate high school boys on the genetic disease and to speak up if they think something is wrong.

The auction – which is now live until 12 noon on Monday 30 November – has an incredible range of items available. There are currently 28 lots up for grabs – with more due to be added – all generously donated by local businesses and individuals, including sporting experiences, luxury overnight breaks and selfcare products.

Highlights include:

Gleneagles 4 Ball on your personal choice of world-renowned courses
Macallan 18-year Double Cask
Overnight stay and afternoon tea at the Pine Trees Hotel, Pitlochry

Stewart said: “This is my first charity auction, so I’m thrilled that John Pye decided to support my cause. As a fit and healthy young guy, being diagnosed with testicular cancer came as a huge shock – I always thought I was invincible.

“From the initial shock of finding out I had cancer, to telling my family and friends, countless appointments and finally undergoing surgery in October 2019, it was a terrifying experience.

“However, since becoming cancer free I’ve tried to turn it into something positive. I’m constantly encouraging people to just check – even once a month in the shower, look out for any pain, swelling, firmness or lumps and call your GP if you are unsure. I was amazed at the number of guys, of all ages, who had no idea what symptoms to look out for!

“This happens to brothers, dads, sons, grandads, friends, uncles, cousins and more. If you notice something you aren’t sure about; ASK!”

All funds raised will be added to Stewart’s Movember fundraising total in addition to his work educating local high schools and completing a number of outrageous challenges. He has also organized a number of bus adverts in collaboration with his university Heriot-Watt.

Adam Pye, managing director at John Pye Auctions, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to help Stewart raise money for Movember. It’s such a worthy cause and after hearing about his personal experience we were more than happy to offer our assistance.

“We hope the money raised will go a long way in supporting testicular cancer, but more importantly we hope this campaign encourages men of all ages to be more aware of the symptoms and to get checked out if something doesn’t seem right.”

Since January this year, John Pye Auctions has helped to raise more than £70,000 through its online charity auctions and has smashed its aim of raising £50,000 for the entire year.

The impressive total has been donated following each auction to a wide range of charities across the UK, each with the purpose of making a difference to the local community.

To see the full auction list and place a bid, please visit:

https://www.johnpyeauctions.co.uk/lot_list.asp?saleid=9158&siteid=1

To find out more about John Pye Auctions and the comprehensive services it offers please visit: www.johnpye.co.uk or join the conversation on Twitter @John_Pye.

Movember is good for your health

Men who take part in Movember’s annual fundraising campaign are more likely to report better mental health and wellbeing than the general male population, new research shows.

A study released today shows that Movember supporters – known as Mo Bros – score more highly than the general male population across a range of mental wellbeing indicators, including having lower levels of negative mental wellbeing and higher levels of eudaimonic wellbeing (living a life with purpose).

The survey of 2,767 British men, commissioned by Movember compared Movember’s database of fundraisers with a nationally representative sample of the general male population online (sampled by YouGov).

It also found that Movember fundraisers are more likely to admit when they are struggling with their mental health and to seek help when they need it – which can have a positive impact on overall wellbeing.

In the last year, almost half (45.8%) of Mo Bros said they had confided in a friend about their problems compared with 19.3% from the general male population (that had confided with a friend, colleague or family member)

Michelle Terry, CEO of Movember, said: “We know many guys struggle with their mental health and when it comes to suicide, men are disproportionately impacted, accounting for three out of four people who take their own lives.

“There is evidence to show that having strong social connections can have a protective effect against poor mental health – that’s why we ask men to spend quality time with their friends and reach out and speak to someone if they are struggling.

“It’s extremely encouraging to see that our fundraising community have taken this message on board, especially during the uncertain times we’re living in.

“We want them to carry on spreading the word that spending time with your mates/friends, talking more often and talking openly with someone you trust is good for your mental health.”

The results also showed that Movember supporters tend to be more physically active, better understand the risk factors for prostate cancer and are more likely to carry out testicular self-examination checks than those who did not take part in the campaign.

Over a third (37.2%) of Mo Bros exercised at least 20 times in the last month (compared with 25.8% of the general male population who say they have been physically active for 30 minutes or more, more than 20 times).

Over a quarter (27%) of Mo Bros over the age of 45 have spoken to their doctor (or other healthcare professional) about their prostate cancer risk in the past year, compared with just 12% of 45s and over in the general male population).

Among the under 45s, eight out of 10 (81%) of Mo Bros have checked their testicles at least once in the last year, compared with 40% of the general male population sample.

“These results confirm that being part of the Movember community really is good for your health,” said Michelle Terry. “It’s not just the feel-good factor you get from helping others around you, making a few small changes can have a real impact on your own physical and mental health.

“It’s been a really tough year – heightened by the pressures of the pandemic – so we want as many men as possible to join our fight for men’s health. It’s time to have fun, do good and improve your health at the same time.”

Support Movember by signing up or donating at Movember.com/2020.

Nearly half of British men say no one has asked them how they are coping during lockdown

Eight out of 10 British men find it helpful when people ask if they’re having a difficult time – yet nearly half (46%) say no one has checked to find out how they are coping during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to new research.

Figures released to mark the start of Mental Health Awareness Week by global men’s health charity Movember, exploring the impact of COVID-19 on social connections, reveal that almost a quarter (22 per cent) of men surveyed had not checked in with friends or family to find out how they were doing during the crisis.

The survey of 1,451 Britons was commissioned by Movember and carried out by the Social Research Centre as part of a global study.

It found that approximately a third of men (33 per cent and 28 per cent respectively) felt their relationships with work colleagues and friends had weakened since the physical distancing restrictions had been imposed.

Older men are the group most likely to have experienced poorer social connections, with 62 per cent of men aged 45+ years reporting they feel less connected to their friends since the COVID-19 outbreak, compared with 41 per cent of men aged 25 to 34.

More than a fifth of men (22 per cent) reported their mental health had worsened compared with before the outbreak of COVID-19 and a third (29 per cent) admitted they felt lonely more often.

Dr Zac Seidler, Director of Mental Health Training, at Movember said: “These findings indicate that guys are hungry for connection and in need of support in these trying times.

“While we know these conversations can often feel uncomfortable or awkward, checking in on your mates and loved ones can make the world of difference. Don’t assume they don’t want to be bothered or don’t want to talk. Just making the call can go a long way.”

Movember is committed to tackling the crisis in men’s mental health through its investment in early intervention and prevention programs.

According to Brendan Maher, Movember Global Director of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, this is why the charity has launched Movember Conversations, a new easy-to-use interactive online tool, that offers practical guidance on how to start a difficult conversation and support someone who is struggling.

He said: “People know it’s important to have conversations to support others; however, confidence and knowledge around how to do this with men is low. What’s making things even harder are the challenges thrown up by COVID-19, and its consequences of physical distancing, job loss, financial stress and strain on relationships.”

Based on R U OK?’s ALEC conversation framework (Ask, Listen, Encourage action, Check in) and guided by an international team of mental health experts, Movember Conversations is a free interactive digital tool that presents a number of scenarios relevant to today’s world including job loss, social isolation and family pressures.

It uses simulated conversations to explore and practise how anyone might navigate a difficult conversation with someone they care about.

Brendan Maher added: “We hope that this tool will encourage people to have conversations with men they care about who might be going through a tough time. Movember Conversations gives them the practical skills to do that.”

CASE STUDY

Steve Smith, 55, from Newbury Berkshire, Cyber Security Manager, married with 2 adult kids. Served in the UK Armed Forces.

“Since the lockdown, I’ve found that I have isolated myself more from my network of buddies, I dropped off Facebook because of the amount of dross being shared and some peoples’ extreme views. Dropping out of Facebook has isolated me further from some of my normal contacts and sources of banter, so it has had a negative impact too.

A group of my best mates always attend the Army v Navy rugby match each year and later we do British SuperBikes at Thruxton. Both take a few weeks of planning and lots of banter on group chats to get things co-ordinated – we have done both events for over a decade. “This has all been put on hold and has left a big gap as many of the things we have in common which mean we communicate are now on hold, hence we are not talking as much as there is less reason.

“I have a friend I work with who has split up with his wife just a few weeks before lockdown. He hasn’t left the house for days at a time. I tell him during work conference calls to call or text me if he needs me, but he doesn’t. He then tells me he’s very low during work calls and so the cycle repeats – 7 weeks now, and sometimes it’s really tough having those conversations and I don’t know what to say. I think there are many men like my friend, lonely and not helping themselves.”

I know how important it is to talk openly because I’ve suffered from anxiety and depression in the past. ‘Years of bottling up my emotions saw me make plans to end my life – but seeking professional help taught me how to change my way of thinking.”

Movember Conversations can found at conversations.movember.com

Move this Movember with MoRunning!

Edinburgh MoRun set to return this November

MoRunning have announced they will host MoRuns at 22 different locations across the UK and Ireland throughout the month of ‘Movember’ – including in Edinburgh – to help raise awareness of men’s health issues and to raise vital funds for the Movember Foundation. Continue reading Move this Movember with MoRunning!

Mo! mo! mo! – hirsute runners hit Holyrood Park!

Over a thousand bewhiskered MoRunners from across the city converged on Holyrood Park for the Edinburgh MoRun on Saturday 9 Novemner, raising an estimated £30,000 for charity.

Weather held for most of the race with some showers but the cold temperature were quickly forgotten as the runners were tackling Arthur’s Seat hill.

The first male to cross the line was Danny White who completed the 5k course in an impressive 18.01 minutes, followed shortly after by the female winner Fionna Barrow who finished in 23:12 minutes.

For the 10k, Hedwig Ponjee finished it in 42:08 for the first female and Tom Wilson in an astonishing 36:50 minutes as first male.

Every runner who enters the run wears a moustache for the event, which raises for funds for Movember charity, and many dressed in fancy dress to take on the 5k or 10k route.

Dave Krangel, Edinburgh MoRun Race Director, said: “We were delighted at the success of the first ever Edinburgh MoRun, with thousands of MoRunners turning up to Holyrood Park in awesome fancy dress and comedy moustaches.

“MoRunning is about enjoying running with friends and family whilst raising funds for Movember to help fight men’s cancers. The atmosphere in Edinburgh was buzzing and we hope to have raised around £30 000 for charity”.

The Edinburgh MoRun is one of 11 MoRuns taking place in parks across Scotland and the rest of the UK and Republic of Ireland during Movember.

A full list of results and winners is available on the MoRunning website at http://edinburgh.mo-running.com

Runners can also follow @mo_running on Twitter or join the MoRunning Facebook group http://www.facebook.com/morunning

3 – 2 – 1 MO!

LAST CHANCE TO ENTER THE EDINBURGH MORUN!

The countdown is on, with just one month to Mo until the 5km and 10km Edinburgh MoRun hits Holyrood Park on Saturday 9 November!

“We’re busy getting ready behind the scenes for the third Edinburgh MoRun says Dave Krangel, Edinburgh MoRun Race Director. “Most places have already been filled so if you want to join in the fun, I’d recommend entering online today at http://edinburgh.mo-running.com.”

MoRunning is a fun and friendly way to get fit whilst raising funds for Movember UK to help fight men’s cancers. Men, women and accompanied children of all ages and running abilities can take part.

Every MoRunner is encouraged to wear a moustache, whether stuck on, drawn on or lovingly cultivated for Movember and there are prizes for the best fancy dress. Everyone who enters receives a moustache medal, MoRunning headband, race chip timing plus Movember goodies.

Krangel adds: “If you’re not running, you can still support the runners to raise funds for men’s health charities by volunteering at the run. We’re keen to hear from MoRunners’ friends and family who can help.”

Volunteers will marshall the route, cheer MoRunners on and help with registrations, handing out medals and water at the finish line. Volunteers will need to be available from 8am-12 noon and will receive free drinks, snacks and MoRunning goodies. Full training will be given on the day.

The Edinburgh MoRun is one of 11 MoRuns taking place in parks across Scotland, the rest of the UK and Republic of Ireland during Movember, with the Glasgow MoRun taking place on Glasgow Green on the same day. Entries cost £15 for 5km and £22 for 10km plus booking fee.

Runners can enter online at http://edinburgh.mo-running.com.

Volunteers can apply at:

http://www.mo-running.com/about-morunning/volunteer-morunning/