Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Cancer Center to offer free prostate cancer screenings

Join Dr. Baum, Dr. Boon, Dr. Makhlouf and Dr. Ogletree for free prostate cancer screenings- Sept. 17 and 18, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Limited appointments available.

Several area physicians are teaming up in September to offer a weekend of free prostate cancer screenings by appointment from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 17-18 at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, 16675 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land.

According to a press release, having an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, is not cancer and doesn't raise the risks of prostate cancer. However, it is uncomfortable for men suffering from it.

BPH rarely causes symptoms in men younger than 40 years old, but affects about 50 percent of men in their 60s and most men in their 70s and 80s.

"Severe BPH can cause serious problems over time, including urinary tract infections, bladder or kidney damage, bladder stones and incontinence," said John Boon, M.D., board certified urologist on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, in the press release. "An enlarged prostate can also cause sudden and complete bladder blockage."

Symptoms of BPH include the frequent need to urinate, difficulty starting and stopping urine flow, decreased size and strength of urine stream and painful urination or bloody urine. Those experiencing symptoms of BPH should undergo a digital rectal exam to determine prostate size and shape.

"Although BPH isn't caused by prostate cancer, a rising prostate-specific antigen level is often an indication of BPH," said Carl Ogletree, M.D., board certified urologist on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, in the release. "We may also order an ultrasound exam or biopsy of the prostate to help make the diagnosis."

Anyone with urinary problems should consult with a doctor about treatment options. To make an appointment with an urologist, call the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Cancer Center physician referral line at 281-274-7500.

To schedule a free screening in September, call 281-274-7500.