Banner Thunderbird to offer free screenings to fight deadly cancer

GLENDALE, Ariz. – (Sept. 2, 2009) – In Arizona prostate cancer kills one man every 15 hours. 

But early detection can save lives.

That is why Banner Thunderbird Medical Center is partnering with the Southwest Prostate Cancer Foundation to offer free prostate cancer screenings and a car show to bring men out to help prevent this deadly disease.

Prostate cancer is one of the most frequent forms of cancer among men but it is also among the most treatable, said Dr. Christopher Stewart, urologist with Banner Thunderbird Medical Center.

“Early detection means increased options when it comes to treatment,” Dr. Stewart said. “But early detection hinges on annual screenings.”

During the screening event men and their families are invited to enjoy a car show put on by the Fast Glass Corvette Club of Phoenix.

Free screenings are by appointment only between 8 a.m. until noon on Saturday, Sept. 26 at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, 5555 W. Thunderbird Road in Glendale.  Men can make an appointment by calling (602) 547-3806 or by e-mailing swprostatecancer@aol.com. Doctor-performed screenings consist of a prostate-specific antigen blood test and a digital rectal exam – both vital to determine your prostate health.

About Banner Thunderbird Medical Center
Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, part of Banner Health—a nonprofit health system with 22 hospitals throughout the West—is a 409-bed acute-care hospital featuring a behavioral health center, children’s center and dedicated outpatient center.