Blessing hosts free prostate cancer screenings in September

As part of its observance of September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Blessing Health is hosting free prostate cancer screenings in five locations across the region. Prostate cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed and treated at the Blessing Cancer Center.

Registration is required. The screenings will be held on the following dates at the following locations:

9/10: Pittsfield in the Illini Community Hospital Casteel Center from 10 am to Noon.

9/19: Quincy in the Blessing Cancer Center Radiation Oncology suite from 1 to 5 pm.

9/25: Macomb at McDonough District Hospital from 10:30 to 12:30 pm.

9/26: At the Blessing Hamilton Warsaw Clinic from 8 to 10 am; and at Blessing Health Hannibal in the 2B Urology suite, west entrance, from 1 to 3 pm.

To register, go online to blessinghealth.org/prostate, or call Stephanie Willey, RN, community outreach coordinator, Blessing Cancer Center, 217-223-8400, ext. 7718.

Mainly older men develop prostate cancer. Of the more than 299,000 cases diagnosed this year, 60% will be in men over the age of 65. Black men are also at high risk for developing the disease. Men ages 55 to 69 should ask their doctor if prostate cancer screening is right for them.

Prostate cancer may cause no signs or symptoms in its early stages. In advanced stages it may cause the following signs and symptoms:

• Frequent urination
• Weak urine stream
• Pain or blood during urination

Men with any of these symptoms should see their healthcare provider as soon as possible. For more information on prostate cancer, go to blessinghealth.org/prostate.