E-mail This StoryOne in every six men will get prostate cancer during his lifetime, according to the National Prostate Cancer Coalition (NPCC). Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed non-skin cancer in American men. There are no noticeable symptoms of prostate cancer while it is still in the early stages, which is why screening is so critical.
Free prostate cancer screenings will be offered on Wednesday, September 10 from 1:00 to 5:30 p.m. at the Blessing Cancer Center on the Lower Level. Participants should use the Blessing Cancer Center's North Entrance at 11th and Oak Street. Appointments are required by calling (217) 223-8400, extension 7708.
The prostate cancer screening consists of two examinations: Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) and a physical exam of the prostate. PSA is a simple blood test that measures the level of protein, largely made in the prostate, called PSA. Normally, PSA is found in the blood at very low levels. Elevated PSA readings can be a sign of prostate cancer; however, PSA levels can be elevated for reasons other than cancer. The Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) is a simple, safe and only slightly uncomfortable physical exam performed by local licensed physicians.
The American Cancer Society recommends that all men 50 years and older should participate in the 10-minute screenings. According to the NPCC, fifty is often considered the age at which to begin annual prostate cancer screenings with the PSA blood test and digital rectal examination. However, men at high risk-- including African Americans and men who have a close family member with prostate cancer at an early age-- should begin testing at age 45. Others at high risk include obese men, those with a body mass index of over 32.5, are 33 percent more likely to die from prostate cancer if diagnosed. Veterans of the Vietnam and Korean War who were exposed to Agent Orange are also at increased risk.
Often there are no symptoms for early stages of prostate cancer. In advanced stages, symptoms may include difficulty or frequency with urination, bleeding into the urine or bone pain. According to NPCC, before the advent of early detection through PSA screening, about three-fourths of all prostate cancer cases were found in the late stages when the disease isn't readily treatable or curable. Since widespread use of screening, about three-fourths of all cases are now found early, giving men a fighting chance.
The screenings are sponsored by the Blessing Cancer Center along with community physicians from Blessing Physician Services; Tri-State Radiation Oncology, PC; Family Medicine Associates; Quincy Medical Group; and Quincy Family Practice Center. For more information about the screenings or to make an appointment, please contact the Blessing Cancer Center at (217) 223-8400, extension 7708. Visit the website at http://www.blessinghealthsystem.org/ for information about services offered at the Blessing Cancer Center.