SPRINGFIELD – Men will be able to get annual prostate cancer screenings with no out-of-pocket cost thanks to a measure supported by State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) that was signed into law Friday.

“Prostate cancer can be life-threatening,” Bennett said. “This new law will allow more men to access prostate cancer screening without barriers and ultimately save lives.”

The law, originally House Bill 5318, will require private insurers to provide all qualifying male policyholders with an annual prostate cancer screening upon the recommendations of a physician.

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men, and its risk increases with age. The American Urological Association estimates that more than 10,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year.

“A simple test can detect it early and save a life,” Bennett said. “Improving the affordability and accessibility of screenings is an essential step in bettering men’s health.”

The law takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.