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Sheffield Professor takes up helm at leading urological association

A SHEFFIELD consultant leading the way in the treatment and care of patients with bladder problems is to take up the most senior position at the European Association of Urology (EAU), the world’s biggest international authority on urological research.

Professor Chris Chapple, a consultant urological surgeon at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and honorary professor at both the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University, has been appointed Secretary General Elect at the EAU and will become Secretary General from March 2015 onwards.

The EAU has been at the forefront of scientific and educational innovation in urological care and practice for the past 40 years.

There are many types of urological diseases and disorders, some of the most common include: prostate and bladder cancer, problems with urinary leakage, and urinary tract infections. Studies have shown that one in six adults have reported having overactive bladder symptoms at any one point. This can interfere with daily activities and disrupt sleep. Lower urinary tract symptoms affect around 40% of older men.

Professor Christopher Chapple has a particular interest in functional reconstruction of the lower urinary tract (the bladder, ureters and urethra) and provides specialist services in lower urinary tract reconstructive surgery. 

As well as being an active member of many urological associations and societies including the British Association of Urological Surgeons, the European Association of Urology, the International Continence Society, the Association of Academic European Urologists and the American Association of Genitourinary Surgeons, Professor Chapple has overseen a number of urological guideline initiatives including the NICE Guidelines Development Group on male lower urinary tract symptoms.

He also co-chaired the International Consultation on Urological Diseases on Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in 2012 and the International Consultation on Urological Diseases on Urethral Structure Management in 2010.

Professor Chris Chapple said: “I am honoured to have been appointed Secretary General Elect of the EAU, which has a strong history and international reputation in addressing the most pressing issues in urological care in Europe, through its scientific and educational initiatives, as well as its publications.  I plan to ensure that the EAU raises the profile of urological diseases within the European Union and beyond, accesses more funding for research and innovation and delivers the very best treatment options for patients. 

“This strong link will enable Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to keep abreast with the latest developments in all fields of urology care and continue to offer patients the best quality service.

“Last year Professor Jim Catto honorary consultant urologist took up the helm as Editor in Chief of the European Urology journal, the highest ranking international Urology Journal so this appointment really does cement Sheffield’s position as being internationally renowned for its urological work.”

To find out more about the European Association of Urology visit www.uroweb.org/home/.

ENDS

Photo: Professor Chris Chapple (far left) with the next generation of urological researchers at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital

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Claudia Blake, Communications Specialist Tel: 0114 226 5033 Email: claudia.blake@sth.nhs.uk