Free, annual PSA screenings preceded by special presentation for men on Sept. 3

FALLBROOK – The free PSA screening event, sponsored by the Fallbrook Healthcare District will take place on Saturday, Sept. 19, but will be preceded this year by a special presentation at Fallbrook Library on Thursday, Sept. 3, at 6:30 p.m..

Guest speaker and expert Dr. Benjamin Larson of Tri-Valley Urology Medical Group will speak at the Sept. 3 presentation on the topic "Let’s Talk about the Prostate," which will be followed by a question and answer opportunity with the physician.

The presentation is being conducted at the monthly Woman of Wellness meeting. Members of WOW have been urged to invite the men in their lives to attend. Men who don’t have a female partner who attends WOW are invited to attend as well. To register for the free presentation, email [email protected] or call (760) 731-9187.

The PSA screening event on Sept. 19 serves to assess local men for the likelihood of prostate cancer, which is the most common cancer among men in the United States after skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men, after lung cancer. It is recommended that men over the age of 50 have a prostate screening on an annual basis. Men who have a

family history of prostate cancer should begin to have evaluations at least by age 40.

Determination of treatment is a matter to be decided by the individual in consult with his physician. A screening is an indicator that additional medical attention may be warranted. Just as an electrocardiogram, a pap smear, a mammogram, or a high cholesterol reading may be an indicator that additional medical attention is warranted, the PSA screening with a blood test and an exam informs men that there may be health concerns that should be attended.

Dr. Philip Brodak, also of Tri-Valley Urology Medical Group, is the physician in charge of the screenings.

Results of the exam and blood study are confidentially provided to each individual. Follow-up on results of the studies is the responsibility of each individual.

Last year, 82.2 percent of the men screened had normal results on both studies. Those with abnormal results on one or both studies amounted to 17.8 percent.

An appointment is required for the free screening on Sept. 19 (7 a.m. to 9 a.m.). Call to schedule: English (760) 731-9187 or Spanish (760) 451-4720. The screenings will be done at Fallbrook Family Health Center, 1328 S. Mission Road, next to Northgate Market.