“P” is for Prostate

Alan Jones, 17th February 2023

On Friday 17th February, the Club welcomed back Alan Jones, who has spoken to us before on a couple of occasions. Alan was a State Registered Nurse for a number of years, and his topic of choice was very close to the hearts of many of the members present. Alan was quick to point out though, that anatomically, this is quite incorrect!

Alan took us on a tour of this problematic little gland, that never stops growing – that being the cause of many associated problems for gentlemen in older life. As it grows it restricts the flow from the bladder – this is why an enlarged prostate can cause so much pain and difficulty in later life.

Alan described in great detail the physiology of the gland and it’s purpose, often with a very humorous touch. Of course, the discussion would not have been complete without the reasoning and need for a rectal examination, and Alan was assisted in a ‘mock demonstration’ by our president. No Probus Members were harmed during this presentation!

Alan’s presentation was performed with a number of ingenious ‘props’ and models and Alan was quick to explain that they were ‘not to scale’! (see picture above).

After a fairly light hearted forty five minutes, the tone was changed to the sombre topic of prostate cancer, and the number of men affected by this condition. The message was clear – get your prostate checked on a regular basis. Early diagnosis can make a huge difference. Don’t be embarrassed.

Sincere thanks go to Alan for an excellent presentation. Tim Howard-Jones proposed the vote of thanks.

After a short break for drinks, a number of members returned to the dining room for our monthly formal lunch, this time celebrating ‘Sooty Friday’, part of the Carnival festivities held in the run up to Lent in Austria, Germany and Switzerland. A suitably Bavarian meal of Schnitzel and Strudel was followed by toasts to the King and Club, and the President said a few words about the Carnival traditions.

Another excellent meeting, enjoyed by all.

Our next formal lunch is on the 17th March. The theme will be St. Patricks Day.