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August 26, 2008

Proclamation marks awareness

Prostate cancer awareness month recognized by mayor

Jonathan Jackson

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and some local organizations are teaming up to help men get screened for the disease that in some cases is preventable.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, aside from some forms of skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer in men and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths.

Oconee Urology, Oconee Regional Medical Center, 100 Black Men of Milledgeville and the Oconee Area are working together to raise awareness of diseases and to help prevent occurrences of cancer.

Representatives from each of the organizations met Tuesday morning to mark the launch of a campaign to combat the disease and promote prostate health.

James Lunsford, president of 100 Black Men Milledgeville, said the program is important not just locally but nationwide and is working with the national organization to screen men for the disease.

“This is one of our many partnerships in the community,” Lunsford said, “as a part of our whole goal, which is making the entire community better. We are proud to be a part of it.”

On Sept. 6, beginning at 8 a.m., men are invited to visit Oconee Urology at 1217 Columbia Dr. in Milledgeville for a free screening where they will fill out a brief health questionnaire. Doctors Boris Velimirovich and Fred Stewart will conduct the quick checks, which include a blood test and digital rectal exam. Oconee Regional Medical Center will provide support staff for the screening and will donate laboratory services to screen for prostate irregularities.

“Last year, 23 percent tested positive, indicating they need to see a doctor,” Carol Odom, office manager for Oconee Urology said. “It doesn’t necessarily mean cancer, but if it comes back positive, then the patient is sent to their primary care physician.”

Odom said men will begin lining up as early as 6:30 a.m. on the day of the exams and will receive “goodie bags” containing information on prostate health.

Velimirovich said any man over 40 with a history of cancer or a family history of cancer, and any man over the age of 50 should be screened for prostate cancer.

Mayor Richard Bentley remarked on the importance of men being screened for the disease.

“Generally speaking, men do not go to the doctor as much as women do,” Bentley said, “and for men, this condition is a leading cause of death.”

“We are proud to be a part of this event,” Lunsford said.

For more information on the screening, contact Oconee Urology by calling (478) 453-7516 or visit their Web site at www.oconeeurology.net.

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