Men 40 years old and older who have no health insurance are invited to receive a free prostate cancer and cholesterol screening at the Whiteside County Health Department. The Health Department received a grant from the Illinois Prostate and Testicular Education and Awareness Program for the third time in four years. The grant period began July 1 and will continue through June 30, 2007.

“This grant is to help us screen men over 40 and without health insurance,” said Joan Saunders, infectious disease coordinator.

Nationwide more than 180,000 new cases of prostate cancer are diagnosed each year, and more than 30,000 men die from the disease. While prostate cancer can occur in men of all ages, it happens more often in men 50 years of age and older, and is most common in men 65 years and older. Risk factors include men over age 50, African-American men, a family history of prostate cancer, high-fat diet and smoking.

Early detection increases survival rate. Prostate screenings should be done yearly for men over 50, or over age 40 with risk factors.

The screening involves taking a blood test to determine the patient’s PSA level. A PSA (prostate specific antigen) below four nanograms per milliliter in men who have an enlarged prostate is normal. Levels between four and 10 are slightly elevated.

Men who have fasted for 12 hours also can have their blood screened for cholesterol, Saunders said. The test results will be given during a free follow-up medical exam. Men can call the Health Department at 626-2230, ext. 332, and ask to set up an appointment.

Submitted by,
Spencer Schein, Health Educatior

Whiteside County Health Department