McHenry Health department offers free prostate screenings

McHenry County Department of Health will continue to offer free prostate cancer screenings in March and April.

Since the program began Feb. 7, staff members have screened 70 men, age 50 and older, using the Prostate Specific Antigen blood test. The 20-minute screening also includes a heart age analysis as well as health education. The PSA is one tool in assessing men's overall health. Early detection allows for early intervention and appropriate treatment.

March and April appointments are available at these locations. Visit www.mcdh.info to check appointment availability or call (815) 334-4851.

• 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, at the McHenry County Department of Health, 100 N. Virginia St., Crystal Lake

• 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 28, at the American Legion, 1101 W. Algonquin Road, Lake in the Hills

• 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 2, at the Greenwood Township, 5211 Miller Road, Wonder Lake

Based on guidelines from the American Urological Association and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, men, age 40 and older, who are African-American, or have a higher risk due to family history can also be screened.

According to the National Center for Health Statistics (2008-2010), 59 men in McHenry County died of prostate cancer. In Illinois, prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men, exceeded only by lung cancer. The Illinois Cancer Partnership, an Illinois Department of Public Health advisory group, encourages health care providers to promote annual physical exams and routine screenings for all men.

Funding for prostate cancer screenings is provided through a grant from Illinois Department of Public Health.

For more information about prostate health, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate/index.htm or call MCDH at (815) 334-4510.