News Release: Hamilton, Bermuda – Acting Minister of Health Neville Tyrrell, officially opened the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre’s 2019 Men’s Health Screening event at the Hamilton Seventh-day Adventist Church Hall.
The free screenings on Thursday (November 21) included blood glucose, blood pressure, kidney and skin analysis, body composition and lung function. There were also numerous physicians and nutritionists at the event, offering free medical consultations.
During his opening remarks Minister Tyrrell urged men to get annual check-ups.
“Events like today’s are so crucial to the health of our community – not only because of the free health screenings that they offer, but also for compelling men just to think about their health. So even if your brother, father or partner didn’t actually come to today’s screening, the promotion around the event will hopefully trigger him to have a conversation with his doctor,” he said.
“Life gets busy. Many of us are juggling numerous responsibilities and commitments and often our health can take a backseat. In fact, statistically, we are less likely to seek out medical care than women. But annual check-ups are so important. They can help you stay healthy, talk about any concerns and pick up early warning signs of disease or illness.
“Screening tests may help your doctor to detect diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some cancers in their early stages…ultimately saving your life.”
Mr Tyrell concluded: “Prostate cancer is the Number 1 cancer affecting men in Bermuda and is 50 per cent more common in black men. 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime.
“At 50, talk to your doctor about prostate cancer and whether it’s right for you to have a PSA test.
“If you are of African or Caribbean descent or have a father or brother with prostate cancer, you should be having this conversation at 45. Know your numbers, know your risk, talk to your doctor.”
