CULLMAN – In recognition of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Cullman Regional is offering free prostate cancer screenings in the Cullman Regional Urology Clinic on Saturday, Nov. 10 and Wednesday, Nov. 14.
According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. The greatest risk factors for developing prostate cancer are family history, race and age. Prostate cancer is the second-most common cancer in U.S. men and is highly treatable if detected early.
“Unfortunately, there usually aren’t any early warning signs for prostate cancer,” said Urologist Lars Erik Wallin III, MD, Cullman Regional Urology Clinic. “In some cases, prostate cancer can cause symptoms, such as trouble urinating, painful or burning urination, weak urine flow and chronic pain in the back, hips or pelvis.”
Cullman Regional’s screenings offer opportunities to check your risk for prostate cancer through a PSA test and a digital prostate exam. The screening is available for men ages 50 – 69 or men over 40 who have a family history of prostate cancer. African American men have a higher risk for prostate cancer and should start getting screened at age 40.
“Prostate cancer is usually treatable in cases where it is detected early,” said Wallin. “That’s why it is important to know your risk factors and start getting screened regularly.”
While the screenings are free, an appointment is required. Schedule an appointment by calling the Cullman Regional Urology Clinic at 256-737-2177. For more information about the Cullman Regional Urology Clinic or services provided at Cullman Regional, visit www.cullmanregional.com.
