SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - September is observed each year as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about one of the most common cancers affecting men and highlighting the importance of early detection and regular health screenings.
In St. Maarten, the month serves as an important opportunity to encourage men to take a proactive approach to their health and to remind the community that early action can make a meaningful difference.
The Positive Foundation and Elektralyets Foundation, serving as the primary facilitators of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month 2026, proudly announce the launch of its eighth annual campaign under the theme “Man UP, Check UP.” The initiative encourages men across St. Maarten to take proactive steps toward safeguarding their health through early detection, education, and community engagement.
In partnership with St. Maarten Laboratory Services (SLS), NAPA Auto Parts, St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC), the St. Maarten Lion’s Club, and the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour – Collective Prevention Services (CPS), the facilitators have organized a comprehensive schedule of activities throughout September.
“Men’s health is a priority, and regular PSA screening is an important step toward early detection and better health outcomes. The Department encourages men to take charge of their health by taking advantage of this opportunity to get screened” says the Collective Prevention Services (CPS).
“We commend the strong collaboration between the Positive Foundation, Elektralyets Foundation, and other health partners for once again coming together to promote awareness, prevention, and healthier communities. Through partnerships like these, we are taking meaningful steps toward making prevention a priority." Said the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour – Collective Prevention Services (CPS).
Free PSA Screenings – September 5, 12, and 19
As part of the “Man UP, Check UP” campaign, St. Maarten Laboratory Services (SLS) will be offering free Prostate‑Specific Antigen (PSA) blood tests screenings. A PSA test is a simple blood test that helps assess prostate health by measuring the level of prostate-specific antigen in the bloodstream.
Early detection can make a difference. Screenings are held at NAPA Auto Parts in Colebay and Philipsburg on Saturday September 5, 12 and 19 from 9AM to 1 PM.
There is no out-of-pocket cost for men aged 40 years and older who participate in the PSA screening as part of the "Man UP, Check UP" campaign.
*Uninsured men: The Positive Foundation, Elektralyets Foundation, and St. Maarten Laboratory Services (SLS) have partnered to provide 100 free PSA test vouchers. These vouchers will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
*Insured men: The cost of the PSA test will be covered by SZV or participating private insurance providers, according to their respective coverage policies.
*All participants must present a valid form of identification to complete the screening process.
These free PSA blood tests provide valuable baseline information about prostate health and support the early detection of potential concerns. Early detection remains one of the most effective tools in improving outcomes and reducing the impact of prostate cancer.
Dr. Cherina Fleming, Director and Clinical Chemist at SLS said that “SLS is proud to collaborate with Positive and the Elektralyets Foundations to help put men’s health first. Prostate cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages because many men may have no obvious symptoms. That is why awareness, education, and appropriate screening conversations are so important.
Through this collaboration, we are encouraging men to take charge of their prostate health by getting their PSA evaluated. A simple blood test can provide valuable information that, together with a healthcare professional’s assessment, can help identify men who may need further evaluation.
SLS’s goal is simple: increase awareness, encourage early detection, and give men the information they need to make informed decisions about their health. At SLS, we believe that prevention starts with awareness—and that every man deserves the opportunity to know his numbers and take action early.”
Michael Ferrier of NAPA Auto Parts and longtime prostate cancer awareness advocate said that “Team NAPA SXM is proud to support prostate cancer awareness by opening our Colebay and Philipsburg locations for free PSA screenings. We are helping to ensure that men in our community have convenient access to early detection and trusted health information. Supporting this campaign is part of our commitment to the well-being of St. Maarten”
“Let’s Talk About Sex – 4” Prostate Cancer Awareness Panel Discussion
In collaboration with the St. Maarten Lion’s Club, the facilitators present an engaging evening of open dialogue and education:
*Saturday, September 19 Lion’s Civic Center, Suckergarden Road #13, St. Maarten - Men’s Night Out Happy Hour: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Panel Discussion: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Featured panelists include:
*Dr. Ramos, Urologist, SMMC
*Dr. Rojas, Urologist, SMMC
*Solens Dornezon, Health & Fitness Coach
*Karen Eusebius - Dietitian
The discussion will explore prostate cancer risks, screening importance, sexual health, nutrition, and lifestyle factors that contribute to long‑term wellness.
"The Sint Maarten Lions Club continues to support this annual event as it aligns with the clubs service pillars - Cancer Awareness. Through collaboration with the Positive and Elektralyets Foundations, we aim to reach a wider audience helping to inform and educate our community on the challenges of cancer, living with it and how to support those with cancer. The work done by these foundations is commendable and needed and have touched many lives over the years" said Lion President Elton Richardson.
Men’s Health Day & Open House – September 26 at SMMC
The Positive and Elektralyets Foundations invite all men to the annual Men’s Health Open House at the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC):
*Saturday, September 26 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
This event will include a detailed review of PSA results from the September screenings, along with a wide range of additional health assessments including blood pressure, diabetes and HIV. Medical professionals will be available to discuss results, answer questions, and guide men on next steps for maintaining or improving their health.
Shari De Riggs, Senior Communications Officer at SMMC said that “since 2019 we’ve partnered with Positive and Elektralyets Foundations and other partners to provide free prostate cancer screenings to our community during the Men’s Health Day and every year, the number of men screened increases. We are proud to continue this live saving work and encourage all men over 40 to take control of their health as early detection saves lives.”
“The Positive and Elektralyets Foundations are committed to improving men’s health in St. Maarten, we believe prostate cancer awareness is a shared community responsibility. Through the ‘Man UP, Check UP’ campaign, now active in St. Maarten, Anguilla, and St. Eustatius, and with outreach to Saba this year, we are empowering men to take charge of their health by making early detection accessible to all. By covering the cost of PSA testing for uninsured men and working closely with our collaborators, we are removing barriers, expanding access, and ensuring every man can make informed decisions about his well‑being. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier future for our island.” Says Presidents of the Positive and Elektralyets Foundations Shelly Alphonso and Mercedes van der Waals -Wyatt.
The Foundations continue their longstanding commitment to advancing cancer awareness in St. Maarten. Their leadership—combined with the support of SLS, NAPA Auto Parts, SMMC, the Lion’s Club, and CPS—ensures that men across the island have access to vital health services and trusted information throughout the month.
Under the theme “Man UP, Check UP,” men are encouraged to attend the free screenings and participate in the month’s events. Families and community members are invited to support the men in their lives by promoting awareness and encouraging engagement.
Together, St. Maarten strengthens its commitment to early detection, education, and healthier futures for all men.
