Guiding principles for the distribution of funds raised
As we are from many and varied parts of the globe, money will be given to organisations which focus on funding research rather than applied support programs. We all benefit if a cure is found.
Primary research is universal. It helps each one of us no matter where we live.
DGR will not give funds to organisations or projects that are designed to create commercial IP.
DGR is guided in its decision-making by our research committee, which comprises of highly-regarded scientists, doctors and researchers. Our committee will help us determine the most appropriate charities to fund and the merits of the projects our funds support. It is important to us that we exercise a high degree of trust over the funds donated and importantly that those funds go to projects of high worth and value.
Ladies and Gentleman, may we take this opportunity to thank you for your efforts in helping fund a cure for prostate cancer and for sharing with us in the life-affirming merriment of The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride.
Each year, one in nine men develop prostate cancer, and close to 500,000 men will die from the disease.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is an abnormal growth of cells in the prostate that form a lump (tumour). In time, without treatment, it may spread to other organs, particularly the bones and lymph nodes, which can be life threatening. Generally at the early and potentially curable stage, prostate cancer does not have obvious symptoms. This makes it different from other benign prostate disorders, which may result in urinary symptoms.
What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
In the early stages of prostate cancer, there may be no symptoms at all. As prostate cancer develops, symptoms can include the need to urinate frequently, particularly at night, sudden urges to urinate, difficulty in starting urine flow, a slow, interrupted flow and dribbling afterwards, pain during urination or blood in the urine or semen.
NOTE: It is important to note that these symptoms are not always signs of prostate cancer. They can also be symptoms of other common and non-life threatening prostate disorders. Men who experience these symptoms should see their doctor immediately, to determine the cause and best treatment.
What testing methods are available?
There is currently no population based screening for prostate cancer and this leads to confusion amongst men and their doctors. There are issues related to testing and treatment, which should be discussed prior to making a decision whether to be tested.
Two simple tests can be done by a doctor:
The Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). The doctor inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland. This may detect hard lumps in the prostate before symptoms occur
The Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test. This test measures the amount of PSA in the blood. PSA blood test is not a cancer-specific diagnostic test; however, it will alert doctors to abnormal growth in the prostate. A combination of both a DRE and PSA blood test is recommended. These tests should be considered as part of a general male health check annually from 50 years of age, or 40 if there is a family history of prostate cancer.
What is the overall risk of developing prostate cancer?
A man has a one in five risk of developing prostate cancer by the age of 85*. A man with a first-degree relative who has been diagnosed with prostate cancer (brother or father) has at least twice the risk.