Blessing to offer free prostate cancer screenings throughout region during September

QUINCY — Blessing Health System is hosting five free prostate cancer screenings in September as part of its observance of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Registration is required by going online to blessinghealth.org/prostate.

The free screenings will be held on the following dates at the following locations:

• Tuesday, Sept. 5, in Pittsfield from 8-10 a.m. in the Casteel Center of Illini Community Hospital
• Thursday, Sept. 7, in Quincy from 1-5 p.m. in the Blessing Cancer Center at Blessing Hospital
• Tuesday, Sept. 12, in Hannibal from 8-10 a.m. in the urology suite at the west entrance to Blessing Health Hannibal
• Tuesday, Sept. 26, from 9 a.m.-noon at Blessing Health Keokuk Clinic at 1414 Maine, Keokuk
• Wednesday, Sept. 27, from 1-3 p.m. at McDonough District Hospital, Macomb.

Men who are 55 to 69 years old should ask their doctor if prostate cancer screening is right for them. Prostate cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed and treated at the Blessing Cancer Center. Mainly older men develop prostate cancer. Black men also are at high risk for developing the disease. The average age at the time of diagnosis is about 66.

Prostate cancer may cause no signs or symptoms in its early stages. In advanced stages it may cause frequent urination, weak urine stream or pain or blood during urination.

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