Marion County Medical Center Hosts Prostate Awareness Seminar

09/07/2007

Marion, SC- Marion County Medical Center recently held a free educational seminar on Prostate Health and Cancer Awareness in conjunction with Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a national celebration held annually in September. According to Kim Woodberry, Assistant to the Vice President of Public Relations, “the purpose of the event was to educate the community on health care issues as they relate to men, with a special focus on Prostate Cancer Awareness.”  The evening, attended by more than 80 Marion County residents, was sponsored by the Public Relations Department of Marion County Medical Center and featured guest speakers from the medical staff as well as senior management.   Dr. Robert Vyge, Chief of Medical Staff, was the keynote speaker for the evening and discussed the signs and symptoms of Prostate Cancer, as well as treatment options once patients have been diagnosed with the disease.  Ulysses Sweeny and Reginald Scott joined Dr. Vyge.  Both are survivors of Prostate Cancer who told of their struggle with the disease and the importance of screenings for early detection. “This was one of our most successful community events to date,” said Gene Tucker, CEO of Marion Regional Healthcare System. “We expect to see continued growth in attendance for such events as members of the community learn about the healthcare initiatives developed by Marion Regional Healthcare System.”   Those in attendance also had the opportunity to sign up for a free prostate screening at Marion County Medical Center.  The hospital system has received a grant from the Coastal Plain Rural Health Network that has allowed them to offer a limited number of free screenings to our community.  The screenings will be provided by the Urology Department of Marion County Medical Center and may still be scheduled. “We were very pleased with the turnout and follow up response that we have experienced since the event,” concluded Elista Smith, Vice President of Public Relations. “We plan to continue providing preventive screenings and events to help increase the quality of health throughout Marion County.” For more information or to schedule an appointment call 843- 431-2086.