March 18, 2008

Turlock, The public is encouraged to take part in free screenings for prostate and colorectal cancer from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Friday, April 4 at the Emanuel Medical Plaza, 880 E. Tuolumne in Turlock.  Emanuel Medical Center's Cancer Services is sponsoring the screenings as a way to reach people who might not otherwise be tested for these common cancers.
   

"Along with breast and lung cancer, prostate cancer and colorectal cancer are the top four deadly cancers diagnosed in the United States," says Katherine Barton, MD, a general surgeon and chair of the Emanuel Medical Center Cancer Committee. "We felt very strongly that we offer these free screenings so we can reach those people who may not have insurance or a primary care physician. We want everyone to be able to be screened regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay, because when cancers are found early, the chances of recovery are much higher." 

The screening will include a physical exam by a physician and cancer-specific blood tests. Many of Emanuel's physicians, nurses and support staff are volunteering their time to help with the effort. Participants and their families also will be able to visit the Cancer Services Education Center to talk with physicians, nurses and representatives from the American Cancer Society staff.

"A fundamental part of Emanuel's comprehensive cancer program is outreach, education and prevention," says Dr. Barton, who hopes to process about 100 screenings that day.  "Emanuel provides a complete cancer care and resource center for the community and the screenings are an excellent way to underscore the expertise offered here."  

Tests for these cancers are recommended for people aged 50 and older and for men aged 40 to 49 who are African American or who have a father, brother or son who had prostate cancer before age 65. Appointments are available at 664-2434. Walk-ins will be accepted on a limited basis. The free screenings will be conducted from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Emanuel Medical Plaza, 880 E. Tuolumne Rd. in Turlock.

In addition to Emanuel Medical Center, sponsors include Stanford Emanuel Radiation Oncology Center, Oasis Surgical, California Oncology of Turlock, Emanuel Physician Center, American Cancer Society and the physicians of Emanuel.