Although prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death among American men, most men diagnosed with the disease do not die from it. When detected early, prostate cancer has a high survival rate. Ephraim McDowell Health is making early detection easier by offering free prostate cancer screenings.
Ephraim McDowell Urology will offer free screenings on September 18 and 25. To schedule an appointment, call (859) 239-2740 or (859) 239-2700. A limited number of appointments are available.
Screenings will be held at the Ephraim McDowell Urology office, 230 West Main Street, Suite 102, Danville, during the following times:
- Friday, September 18, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Saturday, September 25, 1 to 4 p.m.
The screening includes a digital rectal exam and a PSA blood test, which measures prostate-specific antigen produced by the prostate.
To be eligible, participants must:
- Not currently have prostate cancer.
- Be over age 40, or over age 35 if at high risk.
- Not have had a PSA test within the past year.
According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 333,830 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in 2026, with approximately 36,320 deaths expected. About one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime, while about one in 44 will die from the disease.
Prostate cancer is more common in older men and non-Hispanic Black men. About six in 10 cases are diagnosed in men aged 65 and older, and the average age at diagnosis is approximately 67.
Screening is important because prostate cancer often causes no symptoms, particularly in its early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Difficulty beginning urination or inability to urinate
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Persistent pain in the lower back, pelvis or upper thighs