Free Men's Prostate Health Education and Screenings Planned in September 

Screening Provides Early Detection Tool

Norfolk, VA (Aug. 16, 2012)  – Since prevention and early detection are the keys to good health, please join the Sentara Cancer Network for free prostate health education and screenings at two locations. 

September is Prostate Cancer Screening Awareness month. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. When it's detected early while still confined to the prostate gland, patients have the best chance for successful treatment.

During the prostate cancer screenings a free (PSA) blood test will be offered. In addition, a board-certified urologist will administer a digital rectal examination (DRE). The exam takes 20 minutes, and the results of the blood test will be mailed to the participant within 3-4 weeks.

The American Cancer Society recommends yearly rectal exams for men beginning at age 40.

Guidelines for Free Sentara Screenings:
- Men between 40-75 years eligible.
- Must be at least a year since last PSA.
- Patients currently under the care of a urologist are not eligible for the screenings.

Southside 

When: Saturday, Sept.. 22, 2012, 9 -10:30 a.m
Where: Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church
3310 Deep Creek Blvd.
Portsmouth, VA 23702
Map and Directions
Registration: Register online or by calling 1-800-736-8272.

Peninsula 

When: Saturday, Sept. 14, 2012, 9-11 a.m.
Where: Peninsula Institute for Community Health (PICH) at Stoneybrook
15425-H Warwick Blvd.
Newport News, VA 23608
Map and Directions
Registration: Register online or by calling 1-800-736-8272
This men's health screening event will also include screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, colorectal health and diabetes.

About Prostate Cancer
The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland in the male reproductive system that is located below the bladder (the organ that collects and empties urine) and in front of the rectum (the lower part of the intestine).

Prostate cancer begins in the cells that make up prostate tissue. It is the most common cancer in men and usually occurs in older men.

Prostate cancer usually grows slowly and initially remains confined to the prostate gland where it may not cause serious harm. Some types of prostate cancer grow slowly and may need minimal if any treatment, and other types are more aggressive and can spread quickly. Early detection of prostate cancer (when it's still confined to the prostate gland) has a better chance for successful treatment.

Related Links:
Sentara Cancer Network - Prostate Cancer
National Cancer Institute - Prostate Cancer
American Cancer Society - Prostate Cancer

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