Breast, Lung, Skin, Prostate Screenings Among Several Available
Screening exams increases the chances that cancer will be caught at its earliest stages, when it is most curable. Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Cancer Institute will offer a series of free cancer screenings on Saturday, April 23, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the AHN Health + Wellness Pavilion, East Side, at 4950 Buffalo Road.
Due to limited openings, registration is required and may be made by calling 814-452-5960. The public is invited to schedule screenings by calling by Monday, April 18..
Screenings offered by AHN will include breast mammography for those ages 40 and older; cervical cancer screening, including pelvic exam and PAP smear for those ages 21 to 65; colorectal cancer screening for those ages 50 and older; head and neck cancer screening for those ages 18 and older; prostate cancer screening for those over 45 and skin cancer screening for those ages 18 and older. Those with a history of smoking, ages 50-80, can also get a low-dose CT scan lung cancer screening.
AHN’s cancer screening event will also offer participants a “Meet the Doctor” opportunity to ask questions and discuss concerns.
“Cancer screening volumes have unfortunately fallen during the COVID-19 pandemic and we are very concerned that many people are at heightened risk of a delayed diagnosis because of it,,” said David Bartlett, MD, Chair, AHN Cancer Institute. “Our cancer screening event at AHN Health + Wellness Pavilion, East Side in Erie, is a great opportunity for residents of the community to get back on track with their recommended screening schedules.”
The American Cancer Society recommends regular cancer screenings to help prevent cancer and promote better outcomes when the disease is diagnosed. The Society also urges healthy lifestyle practices that reduce the risks of cancer, including not smoking, exercising, staying at a healthy weight, following a healthy diet, and limiting alcohol consumption.
AHN is taking numerous steps to help patients stay safe in its facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic including around-the-clock disinfecting and screening, spaced appointments, distancing in waiting areas and use of personal protective equipment. All patients attending the AHN Cancer Screening event will be screened for COVID-19 on the day before the event and on arrival at the Pavilion.
