COLUMBIA, S.C. — Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health. Now, a special legislative committee is exploring ways to detect it earlier—and potentially save lives.

The Prostate Cancer Study Committee has been working for more than two years, since a proviso was passed tasking the committee with compiling recommendations to address prostate cancer numbers in South Carolina. Members have heard testimony on how to improve access to prostate cancer screenings, including whether insurance should be required to cover those tests for at-risk men at no cost.

Doctors, patients, and health experts have urged lawmakers to pass legislation that would remove barriers to early detection.

“Acting early before sympto

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