Record turnout for VI’s 13th annual prostate screening
Speaking to Virgin Islands News Online yesterday February 5, 2012 Deniese Gardner, Administrator of the BVI Red Cross said that 253 men turned up at the Catholic Community Centre on Saturday – the final leg of the annual screening exercise.
Prior to that, during a two-day period, January 27 and 28, 2012, 758 were tested at the Red Cross Headquarters in Road Town, Tortola.
According to Gardener, she is pleased with the large turnout and added that the number could have been higher had it not been for a funeral on VG.
“We were there from 8 a.m. through 3 p.m., but many of the men came after the funeral...because of the time constraints it was too late...we were not able to screen all,” the Administrator revealed.
However, she is of the view that the numbers seem to be increasing since Virgin Islands’ men have become more aware of the advantages of knowing their status.“I must say they are taking it more seriously compared to previous years,” Gardner added.
She also noted that it was refreshing that men who were previously diagnosed returned as volunteers and spoke to others who were being screened for the first time. “It was really appreciated and its things like these that make us at the Red Cross want to continue this venture.”
Asked how many men were diagnosed with prostate cancer, Gardner disclosed that data will not be known until the tests were completed at Peebles Hospital, which could take between four and eight weeks.
Prior to being screened, the men had their blood tested and received counselling on the disease. They also had the opportunity to check their blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose and HIV status with the free confidential screening that was provided on site.
Prostate cancer occurs in the male reproductive system when cells of the prostate mutate and begin to multiply out of control. These cells may spread from the prostate to other parts of the body, especially the bones and lymph nodes.
It causes pain, difficulty in urinating, erectile dysfunction and other symptoms. It is recommended that men over 45 be screened.
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