Why are Black Men at a Greater Risk For Prostate Cancer?
There are many factors that might lead to an increased risk of prostate cancer in Black men. One of our urologists breaks this down and gives advice on how to stay vigilant.
Black Men and Prostate Cancer
Are you at risk?
Black men are twice as likely to get and die from prostate cancer. Statistics show that one in seven Black men will develop prostate cancer in his lifetime – while for the general population it is one in eight men. This is due to several reasons such as genetics, access to care and low enrollment in clinical trials.
At Henry Ford Health, we are dedicated to closing that gap and narrowing the racial divide. We aim to increase screenings and educate the community.
What you need to know:
- A yearly blood test can prevent prostate cancer deaths.
- Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men
- More than 35,000 men die in the U.S. each year from prostate cancer.
- Exercise, healthy diet, and seeing your doctor every year to check for symptoms helps to decrease deaths from prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer screening
A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and digital rectal exam (DRE) can help find out if you have prostate cancer. Add years to your life and take action today.
Talk about the pros and cons of screening with your doctor.
The American Cancer Society recommends screening for men:
- Age 40, if 2 close relatives (father, brother, son) had prostate cancer before age 65.
- Age 45, if you are a black man or if one of your close relatives had prostate cancer before age 65.
- Age 50, if you are at average risk for prostate cancer
Prostate Cancer Survey
We are interested in hearing from individuals about their knowledge and feelings about prostate cancer screening and treatment. This information will help us to better understand barriers to prostate cancer screening and care/treatment, as well as preferences for how you receive information about this topic. We will use this information to improve services at Henry Ford Health.
Community Events
As part of our dedication to raising awareness and increasing screenings we will be present at various community events. Henry Ford Health partners with various churches in the region to support this effort as well.
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Past Events
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