More than 40 men took advantage of a free prostate cancer testing drive, organisers of the health awareness event said.

Medical professionals had expected about 25 people to show up for the DailyMale men’s health clinic held at the Bermuda Industrial Union at the weekend.

Men over the age of 60 were also offered testing for cardiovascular disease during the event which was held to mark World Cancer Day.

A spokesman said: “More than 40 men were administered tests including the prostate specific antigen test, which measures the amount of the protein produced by both cancerous and noncancerous tissue in the prostate, a small gland that sits below the bladder in males.

“The PSA form of testing was favoured for use over the more invasive digital rectal examination, so as not to discourage men from attending, due to the negative stigma often attached to the latter testing procedure.

“Men unable to be examined were granted reserve places at upcoming, similar editions of the monthly event, which will next feature at St George’s Cricket Club on March 4.”

Jade Robinson, a Bermudian medical student, with a master's degree in public health, said: “The first DailyMale clinic was an overwhelming success, from the volunteers setting up the night before in the dark to men patiently waiting minutes before the opening.

“We initially had a 25 maximum capacity, and exceeded that number in the first hour. It was an amazing turnout.

“Many were said to have emerged from the process with a changed outlook, having gained a greater understanding of the importance of testing in the helping to facilitate a longer, healthier existence.

“It was very heart-warming and truly a day focused on uplifting the community. It really takes a village to make a true difference.”

Future testing drives will take place at Somerset Cricket Club on April 1, Warwick Workmen’s Club on May 6, Bailey's Bay Cricket Club on June 3, and Pembroke Hamilton Club on July 1.

Organisers say they want the testing rollout to develop into a “permanent institution able to consistently take quality healthcare to the streets”.