Free Prostate Screenings Save Lives in Prince George’s County, Maryland.

When MedStar Health community health advocate, Carol Pyle encouraged her husband, George, to attend a free annual prostate screening event at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, he was hesitant. That visit, however, changed his life.

"[The examining physician] did the exam and said he 'felt something 'and suggested George follow up with a urologist,” Carol recalls.  A follow-up biopsy confirmed the diagnosis: George had prostate cancer.

George began radiation and hormonal therapy immediately. Thanks to early detection, he recovered and has been cancer-free for six years.

"I am grateful to be diagnosed early,” says George. "As a retired nurse, I'm aware that without this early diagnosis, the cancer could have metastasized to other parts of my body."

Stories like George's illustrate a critical truth: one screening can save a life. That is why national guidelines emphasize the importance of early detection—the American Cancer Society recommends screening for men over 50 with a digital rectal exam. For Black men or men with a family history of prostate cancer, screenings should start at age 40.

Prostate cancer disproportionately impacts Black men in Prince George’s County, who face nearly 40% higher diagnosis rates and 80% higher mortality than the U.S. average. Still, many remain hesitant to be screened.

"Black men often face a combination of challenges, including fear or mistrust of the healthcare system, lack of access to care, limited awareness of personal risk, and stigma or discomfort surrounding the exam," says Jessica Gamero, community health program manager at MedStar Southern Maryland.

To reduce barriers and improve early detection, MedStar Health has offered free community prostate screenings for many years. Since 2021, these events have been integrated into Senior Health and Wellness Day, a resource fair held by Community Health at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center and Clinton Baptist Church. This long-standing partnership ensures broad community access. For many attendees, these events represent their first prostate screening—and often their first engagement with preventive health care.

Community health advocates conduct direct outreach in neighborhood hubs, including recreation and senior centers, to ensure residents, especially those who do not regularly access care, know the event is free, confidential and open to all—no health insurance required.

At the most recent event hosted at Clinton Baptist Church in partnership with MedStar Southern Maryland, clinicians screened 16 men.

"It's a blessing that we're able to encourage and invite the older men who have never had the opportunity to get their prostate checked," says Pastor Colin Pugh II, senior pastor at Clinton Baptist Church. "I'm thankful this partnership allows it to be done in a way that's inviting, encouraging and safe."

"By hosting screenings in trusted community settings—like churches, barbershops and community centers—we make the process approachable and empowering," Gamero explains, noting that these familiar spaces allow men to have open conversations about health with peers and providers.

Chiledum Ahaghotu, MD, vice president, Medical Affairs, MedStar Southern Maryland, and a board-certified urologist, provides the screenings. After the exam, he discusses the next steps and warning signs with each participant. He carefully reviews the results and provides personalized letters with recommendations. When follow-up care is needed, community health advocates assist with referrals and help ensure continuity of care.

Participants frequently share that the process is easier and more comfortable than expected. Many express appreciation for the supportive environment and the chance to participate alongside friends—an experience that often inspires continued engagement in preventive care.

"We view these screenings as part of a larger commitment to preventive care, community trust and compassion in action," Gamero reflects.