On November 19, 2024, a transformative event is coming to Medicine Hat that every man should take note of! The Man Van, Canada’s groundbreaking mobile men’s health clinic, will be parked at Fire Station #2 from 12 PM to 2 PM, offering FREE physical and mental health screenings.

Did you know that one in six men in Alberta will face a prostate cancer diagnosis in their lifetime? Despite the alarming statistics, many men find it challenging to express their vulnerability and seek help for their health issues, both physical and mental. This is where the Man Van steps in to break those barriers!

Operated by the Prostate Cancer Centre, the Man Van not only educates men about the critical importance of early prostate cancer detection, but it also promotes overall health and well-being. All men aged 40-70 are invited to take advantage of a non-invasive PSA blood test, which is crucial for early prostate cancer detection.

But it doesn’t stop there! The clinical team on board also provides mental wellness assessments, allowing men to check in on their mental health—something often overlooked due to societal stigmas. Chantal Desjarlais, wellness coordinator for the city's People Services division, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing health: “Many men are preoccupied with work and family responsibilities, often neglecting their own health.”

The beauty of the Man Van is in its simplicity: no appointments are needed, and the process takes just 15 minutes, making it extremely accessible. Desjarlais encourages everyone to take this opportunity: “You’re important to someone, and by taking control of your health, you’ll be in a better position to support your loved ones.”

Furthermore, it’s essential to recognize the broader implications of neglecting health. Prostate cancer is not just the most common cancer in men; resulting mental health struggles can have equally serious consequences. The stigma around seeking help can prevent many from getting the support they need—this is your chance to combat that trend!

So mark your calendars for November 19, and make it a priority to visit the Man Van. This initiative allows you to be proactive about your health instead of reactive, offering a quick, painless, and free way to gauge both your physical and mental well-being. Your health matters—don’t wait for a wake-up call!

Remember, you are not just doing this for yourself—you're doing it for your family too. Come out, take action, and be empowered on your journey to better health!