NEWS

Free prostate examinations offered Sept. 18, 19 at Urology Clinic

CHAPEL HILL -- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Division of Urologic Surgery, a component of the School of Medicine’s department of surgery, will offer free prostate examinations to members of the public 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sept. 18 and 19.

Appointments are not required, but those interested are encouraged to make an appointment by calling (919) 966-1315. The prostate examinations will take place at UNC Hospitals’ Urology Clinic, located on the second floor of the hospitals’ main building.

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths nationwide and the most common solid tumor in men, as reported by the Prostate Cancer Education Council. The American Cancer Society currently estimates more than 192,000 cases were diagnosed in 2001.

"Prostate cancer, when detected early enough, is one of the most curable cancers," said Dr. Culley C. Carson, chief of the Division of Urologic Surgery. "Early detection is key in the treatment of prostate cancer, as the symptoms may not be apparent until the disease has advanced significantly."

In particular, black men 40 years and older, white men with a family history of cancer who are 40 years and older and white men 50 years and older are encouraged to have prostate examinations.

The American Cancer Society has reported that most cases of prostate cancers occur in men older than age 50; 70 percent of these cases occur in men older than age 65. Black men and men who have a family history of prostate cancer appear at highest risk for the disease, according to the Prostate Cancer Education Council.

Possible symptoms include weak or interrupted flow of urine, inability to urinate or difficulty in beginning to urinate, need to urinate frequently, blood in urine or semen and continuing pain in the lower back, pelvis or upper thighs, the council has reported.

The UNC examinations are being conducted as a part of the National Prostate Cancer Awareness Week, Sept. 15 through 21. David Collins, manager of the Division of Urologic Surgery, said this is the eighth year the division has sponsored free prostate examinations. He added that 256 men received free prostate examinations during last year’s effort, and 36 tested abnormal for either their prostate exam or PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) blood test.

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Opportunities for interviews: Several researchers who are affiliated with the Division of Urologic Surgery and recognized experts within the area of prostate cancer research are available for interviews with members of the media. To schedule an interview, contact David Collins at (919) 966-9254.

Division of Urologic Surgery contact: David Collins, (919) 966-9254

News Services contact: Deb Saine, (919) 962-8415 or deborah_saine@unc.edu