When it comes to prostate cancer, the statistics are overwhelming.

Prostate cancer is the leading type of cancer diagnosed among men in Spartanburg, Cherokee and Union counties. Statewide, prostate cancer is the second most common death from cancer for men, according to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Services.

But when caught in its initial stages, prostate cancer has incredibly successful treatment rates and extremely low mortality rates.

This highlights the importance of routine annual prostate cancer screenings for men between the ages of 50 and 70.

Gibbs Cancer Center - Pelham is hosting a free prostate screening event for men who qualify. It takes less than 15 minutes for a simple blood test. Digital rectal exams are not required.

The event will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 13. Gibbs Cancer Center - Pelham is located at 2759 SC-14, Greer, SC.

If you have not been screened in the past year and are a man between the ages of 50 and 70 without insurance and a primary care physician, you may qualify for this free screening.

The American Cancer Society confirms one in eight U.S. men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. In 2023, there were roughly 288,300 new cases of prostate cancer and about 34,700 deaths from prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is most prevalent in rural, underserved areas of the state. Gibbs Cancer Center has been on the forefront of prostate cancer outreach and community awareness.

By better understanding the link between rural demographics and risk factors, research efforts can develop strategies to improve prostate cancer outcomes.

For more information on prostate screening events or to register for the free screening on Feb. 13, call 864-560-1966.