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Urology Awareness Month 2017
August 31, 2017
The 1st September marks the beginning of Urology Awareness Month 2017!
What is Urology Awareness Month?
There is often a stigma associated with urological conditions. Embarrassment and fear of being judged can even prevent many people from seeking help and getting treatment. The Urology Foundation therefore organises several events and initiatives to take place and raise the public awareness about urological cancers, symptoms, and treatments. One of the most common cancers affecting men is Prostate Cancer. A shocking one out of eight men are diagnosed with prostate cancer. 40,000 men are diagnosed each year, meaning too many people have the condition and suffer in silence. Urology Awareness Month is held every year to highlight the risk factors and symptoms involved in urological health issues that affect the public.
How to get Involved
To get involved in Urology Awareness Month, you can spread the word through displaying posters and leaflets at your place of work or community centre. Simply send your details to info@theurologyfoundation.org to receive the resources.
Alternatively, you can set yourself a challenge throughout the month!
During the month the Urology Foundation are challenging you to raise over £500 so that the organisation can aim to raise £60,000 to fund vital research into urology cancers. You may want to do something over the 30 days such as cycling 15 miles each day for example.
Download your challenge fundraising pack here or for more information
Which conditions are the public being educated on?
Urological conditions that are common in individuals are the following:
- Prostate cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Bladder prolapse.
- Hematuria (blood in the urine)
- Erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Interstitial cystitis (also called painful bladder syndrome)
- Overactive bladder
- Prostatitis (swelling of the prostate gland)
Additional urological cancers include kidney and testicular cancer which are less common in comparison to prostate cancer. The causes and risk factors vary for each urological cancer however, there are several symptoms that everyone should be aware of should they arise. Some risk factors include smoking and exposure to certain chemicals. A parent or sibling’s diagnosis may also heighten the risk factor for certain urological cancers such as the prostate. As studies continue, there are some causes that have yet to be identified.
What are the signs and symptoms of Urological Cancers?
Knowing the risk factors involved in urological cancers is extremely important, however being aware of the signs and symptoms is also vital in identifying health issues.
You should look out for the following symptoms regularly:
- Painful and frequent urination
- Blood in the urine
- The sudden urge to urinate
- Lumps or masses in the abdomen
- Loss of appetite
- A high fever
If you experience any of these symptoms, medical attention should be sought immediately to combat the problem. Although these symptoms may indicate other serious health issues, it is important to address any concerns with a medical professional. As with all cancers, early detection is key in determining appropriate courses of treatment.
Although progress is being made in finding treatments, it is important to recognize the symptoms for early detection and learn about the treatment options that are available. The progression of urological cancers is different for each group depending upon where it is located, how fast it is growing, how large it is and how long it has been present. Treatment methods will vary depending upon the stage of cancer, for example, if it is non-invasive or superficial or if it is invasive, having grown into muscles or spread into other parts of the body.
Interesting Facts
Here are some surprising facts about urological health that you may not be aware of:
- Men over the age of 40 may be at a greater risk for bladder cancer, while men over the age of 70 may be at a greater risk for prostate cancer
- Pomegranate juice has been proven in studies to help prevent prostate cancer
- It is recommended that men who have a father, son or brother with prostate cancer before the age 65 should begin testing at age 40
- The prostate is about the size of a walnut and weighs about one ounce!
- The NHS estimates that between 3 and 6 million people in the UK have some degree of urinary incontinence
In support of Urology Awareness Month, we are promoting furniture pads, wipes and subtle products that allow people to manage their condition with dignity.
Why not try the following products to provide you with maximum independence and dignity?
Conti Continence Care wipes are gentle, moist cleansing wipes which keep you feeling fresh while managing incontinence. They work as a convenient alternative to soap and water, saving you both time and money.
Depend Active Fit underwear is designed to make you feel that you are wearing everyday underwear. The discreet new colours in the underwear have revolutionised the incontinence pants market.
Id Protect Bed and Seat Pads prevent you from worrying about any leaks on furniture, so you are able to enjoy your day feeling independent and protected.
If you are dealing with incontinence and need to talk to a urologist, you can read our blog about how to talk to a urologist here.