FARMINGTON — Franklin Health Urology will host the annual Men’s HealthFest, which will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, July 15. The event will offer free prostate cancer exams, health screenings and information on a variety of health topics. The attending clinicians will be Dr. Richard Batstone and physician assistant Calli Meader.

All men are encouraged to attend, especially those over the age of 50.

According to urologist Dr. Batstone, “Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men. One in six American men is at a lifetime risk of prostate cancer and if a close relative has prostate cancer, a man’s risk of the disease more than doubles.” Often there are no symptoms, which is why screening is so important.

The prostate screening will utilize the PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test, a physical exam and a urine test. Additional screenings and information will also be available, including cholesterol screenings, blood pressure checks, help for the uninsured, information on low-cost prescription help and more.

Appointments are required for anyone wanting a prostate screening, as space is limited. To make an appointment call 778-4353.

Franklin Health Urology is located in the Franklin Health Medical Arts Center. To reach the building take the same entrance as Franklin Memorial Hospital, then an immediate left. Follow the road 1/4 mile and the building is on the right beyond the Mt. Blue Health Center.

Men’s HealthFest is being co-sponsored by the Healthy Community Coalition and Franklin Health Urology. For more information, contact the Healthy Community Coalition at 779-3136 or 1-800-525-3136.