An estimated one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime and the rate increases to one in six among African American men. As September is prostate cancer awareness month and as an ongoing commitment to caring for the community, Riverside Health is hosting four free prostate cancer screenings around the Peninsula, Williamsburg, Gloucester and the Eastern Shore.
Prostate cancer is the second most common form of cancer in men and is curable if caught in early stages. Factors such as family history, genetics, ethnicity, lifestyle and age can all impact your risk of developing prostate cancer. Age plays a larger role in risk, with an estimated six in ten cases being diagnosed in men aged 65 and older. This disease often does not cause symptoms until the cancer is in later stages, for this reason, annual screening exams are vital to detecting the condition early when it is easier to treat.
Free screenings are by appointment only. The appointment will consist of a prostate specific antigen blood draw and a digital rectal exam. Patients may call 1-800-520-7006 to register for an appointment near them. The free screenings will be held on the following dates and locations:
- Monday, September 9, from 4-6 p.m. at Riverside Urology Specialists Eastern Shore
- Monday, September 16, from 1-4 p.m. at Riverside Urology Specialists Gloucester
- Friday, September 20, from 1-4 p.m. at Riverside Urology Specialists Williamsburg
- Saturday, September 28, from 9 a.m. to noon at Riverside Cancer Care Center in Newport News
“Prostate cancer is more common than you think and hosting these events offers easy, accessible screenings for the community,” says Mary Cleckler, prostate cancer nurse navigator with the Riverside Cancer Care Network. “Our goal is to help patients take proactive steps to maintain their health and wellness and take charge of their health for years to come.”
To learn more about the free prostate cancer screening and prevention events, please visit riversideonline.com/prostatescreening.