Real Men Get Tested

June 9, 2010; Charleston, SC: Men die at higher rates than women and are more likely to have cancer and heart disease. Coincidentally, women are 100 percent more likely to visit their doctor for an annual exam and preventative services than men, according to the CDC. Fighting these statistics, increasing awareness of preventable health problems and early detection and treatment is the focus of Men’s Health Month in June.

In recognition of Men’s Health Month, Trident Health System will offer free Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) screenings and Digital Rectal Exams (DRE) on Saturday, June 19 from 8 a.m. - Noon at Moncks Corner Medical Center.  In addition, there will be a Q&A session with Trident Health System physicians, refreshments and a chance to meet prostate cancer survivors and hear their stories.

Prostate cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in men after lung and colorectal cancer according to the American Cancer Society. One man in six will get prostate cancer during his lifetime and, one in 34 will die of this disease.

Space is limited and registration is required; call Consult-A-Nurse at (843) 797-FIND (3463) today to schedule your appointment or get more information for the PSA blood test and digital rectal exam.

Here are few ways men can prevent more serious health problems from the Blueprint for Men’s Health, a free document from the Men’s Health Network.

•  Limit cholesterol intake and avoid saturated fats.
  
• Moderate exercise for 30 minutes five times a week or vigorous exercise for 20 minutes three times a week.
  
• Protect yourself from the sun.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
  
• Don’t smoke and limit your exposure to second-hand smoke.
• See your doctor regularly.
• Know your family health history and discuss it with your doctor.
• Manage your stress.
  
• Limit alcohol to two drinks per day.
• If you’re over the age of 40, get a prostate screening and monitor it periodically with your doctor.

Trident Health System is an HCA healthcare system comprised of two acute care hospitals – Trident Medical Center and Summerville Medical Center – as well as Moncks Corner Medical Center, a 24 hour Emergency Department. Accredited by The Joint Commission, Trident Health System is committed to providing quality health services along with wellness information and opportunities to the communities it serves. For more information about Trident Health System, please visit our website at www.TridentHealthSystem.com or call 843.797.7000.