Drive Against Prostate Cancer
July 2008
Willie Sutton said he robbed banks because that’s where the money was. With similar logic the National Prostate Cancer Coalition (NPCC) takes its mobile screening unit to where the men are.
On July 26 and 27, thousands of men will be at the Great Oregon Steam-up in Brooks. Along with miniature rail rides, steam-driven tractors, and a parade featuring antique farm equipment, they’ll find a very modern screening-clinic-on-wheels.
The mobile screening unit travels across the nation year-round, promoting prostate cancer awareness and early detection.
The 30-foot bus has four private exam rooms, and the waiting area features a flat-screen television with satellite programming to ensure that no man will ever miss a minute of his favorite sporting event while he waits for his turn.
A local prostate cancer survivor heard about a similar screening held in conjunction with a car show in Las Vegas and took his idea to the prostate cancer support group headed by Eddie and Marcy Kuenzi.
Then he brought it to SCI, which is committed to education and outreach, appropriate cancer screening, and responding to the interests of community partners.
Once the mobile unit had been scheduled, the rest was just logistics. In conjunction with Salem Cancer Institute, Salem Health, and local doctors, the NPCC will offer free PSA testing and digital rectal exams during the first weekend of the annual Steam-up, no reservation required.
Men age 40 and over who have not had a recent exam are encouraged to take part. The free test takes about 10 minutes and does not require an appointment or insurance.
Physicians will discuss findings and recommendations at the time of the screening, and PSA results will be mailed within four weeks. Information and local resources will be provided for follow-up care as needed.
The details
Saturday and Sunday,
July 26 and 27
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
At the Great Oregon Steam Up, held at the Western Antique Powerland Museum in Brooks. Take I-5 north from Salem to exit 263, then west on Brooklake Rd. ¼ mile.
For more information, call the Salem Cancer Institute at 503-562-4321.