Men from the Bath area who are given the devastating news that they are suffering from prostate cancer are able to access some of the most advanced treatment available.
Prostate cancer claims the lives of 11,000 men every year in the UK with a further 40,000 being diagnosed. The figures are about the same as those for women with breast cancer but prostate cancer has been dubbed “The Silent Killer” because men so rarely talk about their illnesses.
Many men in the Bath opt for treatment at the Bristol Urological Institute based at Southmead Hospital, Bristol where the latest robot technology is used to carry out operations where it is appropriate.
But it is important that prostate cancer is diagnosed early. Some simple tests can be carried out and men over 50 are urged to have them because often there are few symptoms of the cancer.
Every year to raise awareness and money for research a five kilometre run takes place on The Downs in Bristol. It is a fun day where people can picnic on The Downs and enjoy a day out and walk or run the course.
This year the Big Run for the Future will be held on September 8th and has a robot theme in honour of the Da Vinci robots that have saved so many West Country lives.
Director of the Bristol Urological Institute and Consultant Urologist, Professor David Gillatt said: “Men diagnosed with prostate cancer in Bath are often treated and cared for at Southmead and it’s vital we continue to support the research work carried out there.
“Treatment using robots is much less invasive and means that men can have a better quality of life after the operation.”
The Big Run for the Future is limited to 7,000 participants so registration has started early.
Although expected to attract some serious runners the event is open to all ages and abilities.
The event is organised by Bristol Rotary in conjunction with the Bristol Urological Institute. The first Run for the Future was held in 2006 and over the years around £250,000 has been raised to help prostate cancer work in the city.
People can register for this year’s event by going to www.runforthefuture.org.uk.
