Conlon Construction is once again urging Preston men to come forward to receive a simple but potentially life-saving blood test, as they gear up to host their second prostate cancer screening event, alongside their community partner, The Walnut Group.
The free event is being held at The Greats’ Room at Preston North End on Saturday 23 March between 10.30am and 12.30pm.
Following the last screening in October, which saw a huge turnout of 234 local men tested for the disease, Conlon has doubled the number of testing kits in order to meet demand. Of those that were tested, around 10% went on to receive red or amber letters which advised them to visit their GP for further investigation.
Throughout the event, qualified prostate cancer screening experts will be on hand to carry out the blood test, while the Walnut Group can offer advice and support.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, with more than 47,000 men diagnosed with the disease each year. Screening can detect prostate cancer in the early stages before any symptoms arise, and has the potential to save lives.
Neil Conlon of Conlon Construction, said: “Following the record turnout of the last event, we knew this was something we wanted to host again. One of those who received a red letter was only tested by chance as he just happened to be visiting PNE’s shop that day. Knowing that this event has potentially saved or prolonged even just one person’s life is reason enough to continue.
“Some men need a bit of a nudge to look after themselves, but we’re encouraging all men who’d like to be screened to turn up. You might not have any symptoms, but it’s worth a few minutes of your time for something that could ultimately save your life.”
Chairman of The Walnut Group, Colin Piddington, added: “Early detection is often the key to survival and whilst there is no definitive test at the moment, the PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) Test is the best indicator that we have. It’s a simple blood test and all men over 50 years of age are encouraged to attend, although men who are more susceptible to the disease due to family history or ethnicity, and who are over 40, should consider being tested also.
“We are only able to offer this service free of charge thanks to our sponsors, associates and phlebotomists. We would also like to thank our members and volunteers without whom these events could not take place. The Walnut Group meets at Vine House in Ribbleton on the first Wednesday of every month at 6pm.”
