Prostate Scotland has launched a new two-year research project into benign prostatic enlargement (BPE), thanks to long-term funding support from The Grand Lodge of Scotland and Scottish Freemasons.
The project aims to build a clearer picture of the experiences of men in Scotland who are diagnosed with BPE, as well as to gather data on the provision of treatment and the impact of growing waiting times across the country. BPE is one of the most common conditions affecting men as they age, and while not cancerous, it can have a significant impact on quality of life and wellbeing.
Sarah Henning has been appointed as Patient Research Coordinator to lead the project. She brings extensive experience in health and social research, having begun her career as a social worker in mental health working at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital. She later completed a PhD in Social Work during which she undertook an SGSSS Internship with the Drugs Analytical Team within the Scottish Government. Sarah will draw on this strong background to focus on men’s experiences of BPE and identify areas for improved care and support.
Sarah (pictured above) said: "This project is a timely and important piece of work. We anticipate its findings will contribute to our knowledge and understanding of the impact of BPE on men's lives and also inform areas of focus for future support and policy."
Ramsay McGhee, Grand Master Mason, Grand Lodge of Scotland and Scottish Freemasons, commented: "We are proud to continue our long-standing partnership with Prostate Scotland by supporting this new research initiative. With BPE affecting so many men across Scotland, it is vital to understand their experiences and ensure services meet their needs. This project will provide valuable insight to help shape future support and care."
The project adds to a growing portfolio of initiatives supported by the Grand Lodge of Scotland and Scottish Freemasons. Another key project is PROSPACKS – tailored packs for men beginning radiotherapy, brachytherapy, surgery or chemotherapy – which are now available in urology departments across several Scottish hospitals, including the Western General, New Victoria, Monklands, Raigmore, and St John’s.
Urology and oncology teams interested in accessing PROSPACKS for their patients can contact Prostate Scotland for further information: info@prostatescotland.org.uk.
About Prostate Scotland
- Prostate Scotland is a Scottish charity set up to provide information, advice and help on prostate health and diseases test and treatments.
- Prostate cancer is the most common cancers affecting men in Scotland. Nearly 1 in 2 men in Scotland will be affected by prostate disease at some stage of their lives and 1 in 10 are likely to develop prostate cancer.
- The charity’s mission is to inform, educate, support, campaign and advance on prostate disease in Scotland.
- It currently receives no government or local authority assistance and generates its own income, receives donations from fundraising and support from voluntary sources.
- The Grand Lodge of Scotland and Scottish Freemasons has supported Prostate Scotland for the past 14 years; its members have undertaken a huge range of activity and fundraising to support the charity. The organisation has members all over Scotland and across the globe.
