A Powerful Partnership for Local Men
A major health initiative took place in the heart of our community on 16 May 2026, as the Tonbridge Lions teamed up with the Prostate Cancer Support Organisation (PCaSO) to host a free prostate screening event. The day was designed not only to boost local awareness about prostate health but also to identify individuals in need of urgent medical intervention.
The event was bolstered by a massive fundraising success. Thanks to a wave of generous grants and donations from local organisations leading up to the day, Tonbridge Lions President Phil Jesson was able to present a cheque for £6,000 to PCaSO during the event.
This financial boost is incredibly significant for PCaSO. The charity receives absolutely no central funding and operates entirely without paid staff or office facilities, meaning every single penny goes directly toward promoting awareness, supporting patients, and funding vital PSA testing.
High Turnout Reveals Critical Results
The sheer volume of attendees underscored the vital need for such an initiative in Tonbridge. Over the course of the day, 636 men stepped forward to undergo PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood tests.
The subsequent data highlights just how crucial early detection can be:
- 54 men (nearly 9%) received ‘Red’ PSA results, indicating levels outside the normal range. These individuals require rapid follow-up investigations with their GPs.
- 39 men received ‘Amber’ results. While these levels are technically within the normal range, they sit at the higher end, meaning these men have been advised to monitor their health regularly.
While more than half of elevated PSA readings are generally linked to non-cancerous conditions, medical estimates suggest that 20 or more of the men tested at the event may have prostate cancer. Because they took part in the screening, they can now begin appropriate treatment pathways much earlier than they otherwise might have.
Teamwork Saves Lives
The smoothly run event was a testament to the immense community spirit in Tonbridge, bringing together the dedicated volunteers of the Tonbridge Lions and PCaSO alongside professional phlebotomists who managed the blood tests.
Reflecting on the achievement, a spokesperson for the Tonbridge Lions remarked:
“This was an extremely busy but incredibly rewarding day. We are enormously grateful to everyone who supported the event through donations, volunteering, and professional expertise. Early detection saves lives, and this event may well have proved life-saving for a number of local men.”
Both the Tonbridge Lions and PCaSO have extended their heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors, supporters, volunteers, and healthcare professionals who lent their time and expertise to make the day a resounding success.
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