Prostate Cancer and the Importance of Risk-Based Testing for Older Men

Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer among men in England, with cases surging by 25 per cent between 2019 and 2023 and claiming a life every 45 minutes despite its high curability when caught early. As in many countries, Spain and the UK lack a formal screening programme, leaving many older men at risk of late diagnosis and advanced disease.

Understanding the Stakes for Older Men

Many of us in the Masonic community find ourselves entering the age bracket where prostate cancer incidence climbs steeply. In the UK alone, on average, more than 55,000 men are diagnosed annually, and over 12,000 die of prostate cancer—making it the second most common cause of cancer death in men.

Globally, prostate cancer ranks as the second most common male cancer, with new cases set to approach three million annually by 2040 and mortality rising by 85 per cent if no action is taken.

Why early testing matters

A one-size-fits-all approach to prostate cancer testing has drawbacks. Traditional PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood tests can detect elevated protein levels, but they miss some cancers and generate false positives that lead to unnecessary biopsies and treatment. That’s why recent UK research is focusing on classifying men by individual risk—using age, family history, ethnicity and, in the future, emerging genetic tools—to target testing where it will have the most impact.

• Brethren aged 50 and over should consult their doctor and consider a PSA or other test; those aged 45 and over who are Black or have a family history of prostate cancer are strongly advised to discuss testing sooner.

• In the UK, one in five men present with incurable, advanced disease compared to under one in ten in countries with formal screening programmes such as the United States—largely thanks to routine PSA testing.

• Socio-economic and educational disparities mean that affluent, health-literate men are more likely to seek testing, while many others slip through the net simply due to lack of awareness or inconsistent advice from doctors.

Practical Steps for Masons

The Provincial Almoners team has produced a Factsheet which provides information on Prostate Cancer, the different tests available and signposts to where brethren can seek individual advice on their risk and the different tests available to them.

1. Know your baseline risk: consider age, ethnicity and family history.

2. Discuss testing with your doctor once you turn 50, or at 45 if you’re Black or have affected relatives.

3. Keep abreast of developing work on Prostate Cancer.

4. Use the strength of our fraternity: share experiences and encourage one another to take proactive steps.

Looking Ahead

By staying informed and supporting one another, we can help ensure that prostate cancer is caught early—when it is most treatable—and safeguard the health of our brethren for years to come.

REMEMBER – EARLY DETECTION IS YOUR BEST PROTECTION

On Sunday 13th July, under blazing sunshine and with the mercury reaching 30 °C, a handful of our brethren took the plunge at Les Marines Beach for the Provincial Sponsored Swim. Many others sent their best wishes—and, as importantly, generously sponsored our intrepid swimmers.

Among the participants was W. Bro. David Clarke of Oliva La Safor Lodge No 112, accompanied by his partner Kristina. In good humour, David revealed that the Lodge had contributed €20 for “testing the waters” and a further €180 to spare us from photographing his entry.

Before braving the gentle Mediterranean surf, the Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro. Rodney Bignell; the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, W. Bro. David Wynn; and the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W. Bro. Terry Whitehead, ceremonially adjourned from labour to refreshment – Cheers!

Our swimmers enjoyed robust support from a distinguished assembly of brethren – pictured left to right:

• W. Bro. Ian Brown, Provincial Grand Treasurer

• W. Bro. Terry Whitehead, Assistant Provincial Grand Master

• W. Bro. Peter Johnson, Provincial Grand Charity Steward, co-organiser

• W. Bro. Peter Farrell, Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies

• Bro. Mike Tullett (Jávea Lodge No 40), co-organiser

• R.W. Bro. David Wynn, Deputy Provincial Grand Master

• W. Bro. David Clarke (Oliva La Safor Lodge No 112) and his partner Kristina

• R.W. Bro. Rodney Bignell, Provincial Grand Master

Below are a small sample of photographs of our swimmers racing hard up and down the coast (ahem!) – double click on the thumbnails to expand the photograph.

Finally, we include a rare photograph of our Province’s Communications Officer, Bro. Steve Young of Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No 58, whose lens captured every memorable moment.

Thanks to the brave swimmers and the generosity of all of the brethren who sponsored them, the Swim raised €800 for the 2026 Festival.

Every contribution brings us a stroke closer to our goal of acquiring a new Marina Alta Masonic Centre.

Does your Lodge have a story for the website?

We’re always happy to publish your news or stories. Please send details to Bro. Steve Young at prensa@glpvalencia.com.

(L-R) – W. Bro. John Young, Jayne Blake, Mrs Jenny Young and volunteers from Cancer Care Jávea

On 15th July, Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No 58 had the honour of presenting a donation of €2,025 to Cancer Care Jávea. These funds were raised at the annual Ladies Gala on 30th May 2025, and will directly benefit those in our community facing the challenges of cancer.

“Charity is the cornerstone of our fraternity,” remarked Worshipful Master John Young. “It is through our collective efforts that we bring light to those who most need our support. Today’s donation exemplifies the very essence of Freemasonry—working together to uplift our community.”

Cancer Care Jávea’s Lynwen nursing team provide vital services across the town, ensuring that every patient and family member affected by cancer receives compassion, guidance and practical assistance. Their professionalism and dedication embody the spirit of care that the Lodge strives to foster.

Jayne Nuttall Blake, President of Cancer Care Jávea, offered her heartfelt thanks: “The generosity of Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No 58 makes a significant difference to the lives of those affected by cancer. Our team of Lynwen nurses is truly grateful for this support, which enables us to extend hope and comfort to every individual in Jávea facing this journey.”

Puerto de Xàbia Lodge No 58 remains committed to charitable endeavours that strengthen our local community.

W. Bro. Young concluded, “We extend our sincere gratitude to all of our friends in other Lodges who attended the Ladies Gala and contributed to this worthy cause. Together, we will continue to uphold the proud Masonic tradition of benevolence and compassion.”

(L-R) Mark Richards, W. Bro. Alex Wilkins, Ian McCarthy and Darrel Jones

On July 9th, Jávea Lodge No. 40 held its annual lively and fun filled Race Night on the terraces of Casa de la Pizza at the Costa Nova Masonic Centre in Jávea.

Fifty members, friends, and generous sponsors gathered for an evening of virtual horse racing, laughter, and community spirit, raising 1,050€ for the local firefighters and other masonic charities.

The Balcon al Mar Voluntarios Firefighters are a group of dedicated volunteers covering the whole of Jávea and who rely largely on donations to keep going.

Double click on images to expand them

The atmosphere was tremendous, with cheering and celebration, all the while helping to protect the Jávea area. Those of us who experienced the terrible forest fires of 9 years ago, remember how bravely the local volunteers battled to save our homes.

Jávea 40’s Worshipful Master, Alex Wilkins, said “Supporting our local Firefighters is so important – they need essential equipment to keep us safe, and every euro helps.”

R.W. Bro. Rodney Charles Bignell, the Provincial Grand Master, together with members of the Provincial Grand Stewards’ Lodge and their partners, gathered this weekend for the Provincial Grand Stewards’ Lodge annual summer retreat. Set against the timeless beauty of Lake Como, this cherished tradition affords an ideal balance of fellowship, reflection and forward-planning for the year ahead.

The retreat took place at the charming Hotel Bazzoni, where delegates enjoyed the splendid views and shared convivial company over local cuisine and wines.

More than a working meeting, the retreat reinforces the close bonds between Stewards across the Province of Valencia, ensuring our collective endeavours continue with unity and purpose. As with tradition, a Lodge of Instruction was held, with the rehearsal of a third degree ceremony.

We are pleased to share a curated gallery of photographs from this year’s gathering. Please see below to view highlights of friendship, inspiration and the stunning Lake Como setting that make this event a true highlight of our Masonic calendar.

Double click to expand the photographs.

On Tuesday 24th June, members of Arenal Deportiva Lodge No. 65 visited the Alzheimer’s Centre in Teulada (AFA) following a gracious invitation from the Association’s President, Mrs Sylvia Tatnell MBE.

As part of our ongoing support for the local community, Lodge member W. Bro. Graham Simons had identified a need for an orthopaedic chair at the centre. We were therefore pleased to fund this essential piece of equipment through our various fundraising initiatives.

The dedicated staff and nurses at the Alzheimer’s Centre deliver exemplary care to individuals with dementia, thereby easing the burden on carers and families. This cause is one of our most commendable, significantly benefiting those affected and their loved ones.

Pictured are Worshipful Brothers Ian Brown, Philip Bowick, Ricardo Estornell (Worshipful Master), Graham Simons and Peter Johnson alongside Centre President Mrs Sylvia Tatnell MBE.

The June Edition of the revised Provincial Newsletter, Sol y Compás, has been published and distributed via Lodge Secretaries.

A Flipbook version is available which can be viewed on mobiles, tablets and PCs. A PDF version in English or Spanish may be downloaded from the links below.

21st June marks the beginning of astronomical summer. Commonly known as the Summer Solstice, the name derives from the Latin words “Sol” (sun) and “sistere” (to stand still), referring to the sun’s apparent pause at the peak of its northward journey across the sky.

Interesting Fact: in 2024, due to the leap year, the solstice actually fell on 20th June.

For thousands of years, cultures across the globe have observed the Summer Solstice with festivals and rituals—often involving bonfires. These celebrations are traditionally associated with the Feast Day of St John the Baptist, held on 24th June. Historically, this date aligned with the solstice on the Roman calendar.

Along the Mediterranean coast, the occasion is marked with vibrant parties, fireworks, and fires in honour of Sant Joan—and the Brethren of Oliva La Safor Lodge No. 112 certainly embraced the spirit of the season.

More than 40 members and their guests gathered at La Bresca Restaurant in Els Poblets to enjoy a Solstice Dinner beneath the Jacaranda trees in the garden’s charming surroundings.

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The sun, the most honoured guest of the evening, made its presence felt with temperatures soaring past 30°C. Thankfully, a refreshing sea breeze brought some relief.

Live entertainment was provided by Dave Manhatten, who serenaded the crowd with classic hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s. A few adventurous guests even set aside their fans to take to the dance floor to the songs of Billy Ocean, The Drifters and The Monkees.

Despite the heat, the spirit of Charity remained at the forefront. A well-supported raffle raised €300 for the Lodge’s charity fund. Worshipful Master W. Bro. David Clarke offered thanks to all those in attendance, remarking:

“We are truly grateful to everyone who joined us this evening. We hope you’ve had a wonderful time. As always, we are humbled by your generosity, and I can assure you that every euro raised tonight will go towards supporting worthwhile causes in the Marina Alta region.”

As the sun finally dipped below the western horizon, the team from Oliva La Safor ensured that every guest left well-fed, well-refreshed, and filled with fond memories of an evening spent in warmth, fellowship and celebration.