Numark is helping its members support their customers with bladder problems for Urology Awareness Month in September. Member pharmacies will automatically receive a pharmacy poster and patient leaflets on urology conditions and urology cancers which have been produced through a charitable donation by Numark to The Urology Foundation.

Throughout September the symbol group will also be communicating messages via emails, twitter feed and the weekly member newsletter. Numark information pharmacist Michael Stewart said: “By raising awareness of ‘red flag’ warning signs (blood in urine, pain when urinating, unexplained weight loss) and referring patients to their doctor, it is hoped that cancer will be detected earlier and treatment more successful. Patients with less worrying symptoms can be given practical advice on managing symptoms effectively.”

Bladder problems include a range of diseases and disorders, from bladder and prostate cancers to incontinence and urinary tract infections. Every year, more than 10,000 people are diagnosed with kidney cancer and more than 5,000 die from the disease. Over 10,000 new cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed each year in the UK and 41,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer.

It is estimated that 46 per cent of the world’s adult population experience symptoms of urinary incontinence. “The pharmacy team are in an ideal position to identify people with bladder problems, refer onwards when necessary and provide practical support for coping with daily life. Establishing a relationship and providing support at an early stage can create long term customer loyalty and promote your business within the local community."