Ambassador and Directors Emeritus
Ambassador Emeritus
Jean Pagé
Ambassador Emeritus of PROCURE
For over 15 years, Jean Pagé has been able to carry PROCURE’s mission at arm’s length. Diagnosed himself with prostate cancer at the age of 49, he transformed his fight into a united action to help all men and families burdened by this disease, by raising their awareness of the importance of screening and prevention.
A committed man, he has broken taboos around prostate cancer for years and has given many men the chance to break out of isolation and speak out about their disease. Associated as ambassador and spokesperson for PROCURE, he was able to promote this cause, which affects 12 Quebecers every day.
On January 29, 2019, PROCURE’s Board of Directors awarded Jean Pagé, in recognition of the exemplary work he has done, and his commitment over the last 15 years, the most prestigious honorary title of PROCURE, the Ambassador Emeritus of PROCURE.
Even at the end of his life, Jean was there to support the cause. Even if he could not be physically present, he remotely followed the 13th edition of the Jean-Pagé Walk of Courage, thanks to his family and through the media and social networks. He showed an unwavering commitment that touched us all.
On December 9, 2019, it was with a heavy heart that his spouse Brigitte Bélanger and all children, Isabelle, Alexandra, Élisabeth, and William, announced the death of our dear Ambassador Emeritus. He died peacefully surrounded by his family in his house.
We cannot thank him enough for all that he has brought to PROCURE and to his battle in the fight against prostate cancer. His philanthropic involvement was out of the ordinary and we could not have done it without him. Today, his daughter Isabelle takes up the cause and together we will continue his fight and will honor his memory in each of our actions, because «There is something about Jean in me, which is in us all and which will stay forever» Cédric Bisson, Chairman of the PROCURE Board of Directors.
Click here to see French video honouring Jean Pagé.
Directors Emeritus
Michel Côté
Director Emeritus of PROCURE
Consultant, BMO Nesbitt Burns, Board Administrator. Michel E. Côté, the former Vice-Chairman and Managing Director at BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. and a Board member of several companies, was Governor of the Montreal Stock Exchange as well as Member of the Executive Committee of the Investment Dealers’ Association. In addition to his work as a consultant for investment banking services at BMO Nesbitt Burns, Inc., Mr. Côté continues to support PROCURE’s efforts on all fronts.
Albert Jean de Grandpré
Director Emeritus of PROCURE
C.C., Q.C. Albert Jean De Grandpré, lawyer, business executive (b at Montréal 14 Sept 1921). Educated at Collège Jean-de-Brébeuf (BA 1940) and McGill University (BLC 1943), he practised insurance law in Québec during 1943-66 before joining Bell Canada as general counsel. He became president in 1973 and chairman and CEO in 1976. lways notable for his aggressive defence of company social interest and his aversion to government regulation, he devised a scheme in 1981-83 to reorganize Bell Canada, a telephone utility under the regulatory authority of the CRTC, into Bell Canada Enterprises Inc – a holding company that largely evaded that authority – in order to free the company for growth.
Stephen A. Jarislowsky
Director Emeritus of PROCURE
Chairman, Jarislowsky Fraser Limited. Stephen Jarislowsky presides over one of the largest and most successful investment management firms in Canada. Active in other corporations, educational, cultural and charitable activities, Mr. Jarislowsky has endowed eleven University Chairs and contributes frequently to television, radio, magazines and newspapers. Recipient of the Order of Canada and Honorary degrees from a number of Canadian Universities, he serves on the Audit Committee of PROCURE.
Éric Lamarre
Director Emeritus of PROCURE
Associé Directeur, McKinsey & Compagnie. Éric Lamarre est associé directeur au sein de McKinsey & Compagnie, une firme internationale de conseil en gestion qui offre ses services à des organisations du secteur privé ainsi que du secteur public, tels que gouvernements, institutions et organismes sans but lucratif. Il travaille autant avec de grandes entreprises implantées au Québec qu’avec des multinationales sur des projets stratégiques et organisationnels. M. Lamarre a contribué à la mise sur pied de la Biobanque PROCURE du cancer de la prostate du Québec et il a joué un rôle clef dans le développement du site Internet d’information de PROCURE.
Alain Lemaire
Director Emeritus of PROCURE
O.C. Président et chef de la direction, Cascades Inc. Alain Lemaire teamed with his brothers to grow Cascades Inc. into what is today a highly successful international business. His qualities as a man of action have earned him numerous distinctions, not only in the regional and national business community, but also in the environmental and social sectors. He played an integral role in the establishment of PROCURE and continues to support PROCURE’s efforts on all fronts.
Ambassador and Directors Emeritus
Ambassador and Directors Emeritus
AMBASSADOR AND DIRECTORS EMERITUS
Outstanding individuals
These honorary titles are awarded in recognition of the exemplary work, commitment, and outstanding philanthropic involvement of individuals who have wholeheartedly supported PROCURE’s mission.
Jean Pagé – Ambassador Emeritus of PROCURE
For over 15 years, Jean Pagé has been able to carry PROCURE’s mission at arm’s length. Diagnosed himself with prostate cancer at the age of 49, he transformed his fight into a united action to help all men and families burdened by this disease, by raising their awareness of the importance of screening and prevention.
A committed man, he has broken taboos around prostate cancer for years and has given many men the chance to break out of isolation and speak out about their disease. Associated as ambassador and spokesperson for PROCURE, he was able to promote this cause, which affects 12 Quebecers every day.
On January 29, 2019, PROCURE’s Board of Directors awarded Jean Pagé, in recognition of the exemplary work he has done, and his commitment over the last 15 years, the most prestigious honorary title of PROCURE, the Ambassador Emeritus of PROCURE.
Even at the end of his life, Jean was there to support the cause. Even if he could not be physically present, he remotely followed the 13th edition of the Jean-Pagé Walk of Courage, thanks to his family and through the media and social networks. He showed an unwavering commitment that touched us all.
On December 9, 2019, it was with a heavy heart that his spouse Brigitte Bélanger and all children, Isabelle, Alexandra, Élisabeth, and William, announced the death of our dear Ambassador Emeritus. He died peacefully surrounded by his family in his house.
We cannot thank him enough for all that he has brought to PROCURE and to his battle in the fight against prostate cancer. His philanthropic involvement was out of the ordinary and we could not have done it without him. Today, his daughter Isabelle takes up the cause and together we will continue his fight and will honor his memory in each of our actions, because «There is something about Jean in me, which is in us all and which will stay forever» Cédric Bisson, Chairman of the PROCURE Board of Directors.
Supporters of PROCURE on all fronts
Additional Information - Your prostate
How I coped with prostate cancer
A man with prostate cancer shares the challenges of his cancer experience.
Urologist’s advice: Treatments and information on prostate cancer
Learn more about the role of the urologist and the importance for a patient to gather adequate information after receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis.
Prostate cancer: Tests, imaging and biomarkers
Discussion about the variety of approaches available to monitor this disease before, during, or after treatment.
Is prostate cancer hereditary?
Understanding the hereditary and genetic aspects of this disease can provide valuable information to both individuals affected and their families.
Symptoms, risk and screening
Are you over 50 or experiencing urinary problems? Discover why early screening for prostate diseases is important.
Diagnosis and treatment
Recently diagnosed with cancer? Educate yourself to fully understand your situation.
The role of hormone therapy
Has your doctor recommended hormone therapy? This video is for you!
States of prostate cancer following treatment
Do your recent tests show an increase in PSA levels? It could indicate a recurrence.
External radiation or Brachytherapy?
Explore the benefits and considerations of each treatment option for prostate cancer to determine which might be right for you.
Q-A – New therapies for advance prostate cancer
In this interview, we answer patients’ questions about new therapies for advanced prostate cancer.
Genetic predisposition to prostate cancer
Although rare, some hereditary genetic mutations can increase your risk of prostate cancer.
All about hormone therapy
Hormone therapy can reduce tumor size, control cancer, and prolong life. Is it the right treatment for your cancer?
Active surveillance in 5 points
As surprising as it may seem, your doctor may prefer to wait before starting treatment.
States of prostate cancer post-treatment
Gentlemen, you’re being treated for prostate cancer, and your latest blood tests show an increase in PSA levels?
Your role as a patient
Have you been diagnosed with prostate cancer? Your role as a patient is essential throughout your journey.
Me a guinea pig?
Did you know that participating in a clinical trial advances medical science and improves the lot of patients for future generations?
Sources and references
Last medical and editorial review: April 2024. See our web page validation committee and our collaborators by clicking here.
Discover our animated video!
Symptoms, risk and screening
Are you over 50 years old, or have you been having urinary problems for some time now? This video is for you! Several diseases can affect your prostate, and it’s important to detect them early. Let’s take a closer look.
Anatomy
What is the prostate
The prostate is a gland:
- Located between the bladder and the penis, just in front of the rectum;
- Formed of 2 lobes which surround the urethra, a canal that runs through the center of the prostate, from the bladder to the penis, letting urine and sperm flow out of the body;
- The size of a walnut, which grows larger in size in your forties;
- That has a soft, spongy texture to the touch like a small, ripe plum.
The prostate is made of:
- Gland cells that secrete liquids for ejaculation;
- Muscle cells that participate in the evacuation of your sperm during ejaculation;
- Fiber cells that maintain the structure of the gland.
Around the prostate, we find:
- The seminal vesicles, glands that produce sperm and that are located on either side of the prostate;
- The vas deferens, the tube that carries sperm from the testicle to the seminal vesicles;
- The nerve bundles that control your bladder and erectile function and that are located on either side of your prostate.
Structure
Three main zones of the prostate
Peripheral zone
- The peripheral zone is the largest area of the prostate. It can easily be felt by the doctor during a digital rectal exam (DRE).
- Most prostate cancers start in the peripheral zone.
Transition zone
- This is the area located in the middle of the prostate, between the peripheral and central areas. It surrounds your urethra that runs through the prostate.
- With age, the transitional area increases in size until it becomes the largest portion of your prostate. This is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate.
Central zone
- It is the part of the prostate that is farthest from the rectum. This is why prostate tumors located in this area can not be felt by the doctor during a digital rectal examination.
- If the doctor is in doubt, the following information will help decide if additional investigation is necessary:
- Your PSA level
- Your age and family history
- Your ethnic origin
Fonction
In short
Your fertility and natural fertilization
- It produces … a prostatic fluid rich in enzymes, proteins and minerals that nourishes and protects your spermatozoa.
- It makes … a protein (APS) that is used to liquefy your sperm to facilitate the mobility of your spermatozoa.
- It allows … ejaculation by contracting.
- It promotes … fertility through its enzymes facilitating the penetration of sperm through the cervix.
- It is not related to the mechanism of erection. Therefore, the origin of erectile dysfunction lies elsewhere.
Additional details
Exocrine Function
The prostate is made up of thousands of tiny fluid-producing glands. Specifically, the prostate is an exocrine gland. Exocrine glands are so-called because they secrete through ducts to the outside of the body (or into a cavity that communicates with the outside). Sweat glands are another example of an exocrine gland.
The fluid that the prostate gland produces forms part of semen, the fluid that carries sperm during orgasm. This fluid, produced in the prostate, is stored with sperm in the seminal vesicles. When the male climaxes, muscular contractions cause the prostate to secrete this fluid into the urethra, where it is expelled from the body through the penis.
Urine Flow
The prostate wraps itself around the urethra as it passes from the bladder to the penis. Prostatic changes can affect urine flow. Increasing the size of the prostate or muscle tone may impede the flow of urine due to the close anatomical relationship between the urethra and the prostate.
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)
The prostate also produces a protein called prostate-specific antigen (PSA). PSA is released with the ejaculatory fluid and can also be traced in the bloodstream. The testing of PSA levels in the blood is used to detect prostate cancer. The level of PSA in the blood is usually measured in nanograms of PSA per milliliter of blood (ng/mL).
A raised PSA level
Usually, a PSA rate of less than 4 nanograms per milliliter of blood is normal, but age should also be taken into consideration as PSA levels gradually increase with age. A rise in PSA concentration may indicate the presence of:
- An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
- An inflammation or infection of the prostate (prostatitis)
- A prostate cancer
Your doctor will have you undergo other tests to determine the exact cause of the increase in your PSA.
We are here for you
You have questions or concerns? Don’t hesitate. Contact us at 1-855-899-2873 to discuss with one of our nurses specialized in uro-oncology. They are there to listen, support and answer your questions, and those of your family or your loved ones. It’s simple and free, like all of our other services.
Also take the time to visit each of our pages on this website, as well as our YouTube channel, in order to get familiar with the disease, our expert lectures, our section on available resources, the support that is offered to you, our events and ways to get involved to advance the cause..
Staying Informed
Pages that might interest you
Want to know more? Just click on one of the links below.
The latest PROCURE news that might interest you
Every week we publish a blog article. Here are some for you.
The medical content and editorial team at PROCURE
Our team is composed of urologists, and nurses certified in uro-oncology with a deep knowledge of prostate cancer and other diseases related to the genitourinary system. Meet our staff by clicking here.
Sources and references
- Prostate Cancer – Understand the disease and its treatments; Fred Saad, MD, FRCSC and Michael McCormack, MD, FRCSC, 4th et 5th editions
- Canadian Cancer Society
- Prostate Cancer Foundation-PCF.org
- National Cancer Institute-USA
- American Cancer Society
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- Prostate Cancer UK
Last medical and editorial review: September 2023
Written by PROCURE. © All rights reserved
