Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. While the disease can impact anyone, regardless of race, research consistently shows that Black men face a significantly higher risk—not only of developing the disease but also of experiencing more aggressive forms and worse outcomes.
Understanding the symptoms and the reasons behind this increased risk is a critical step toward early detection and developing better health outcomes for our kings.
Common Symptoms of Prostate Cancer
In its early stages, prostate cancer often presents no symptoms. This is why regular screening is vital, especially for high-risk groups. Notably, prostate cancer typically develops at an early age for Black men compared to other races. Symptoms can begin to show as early as 45, according to Prostate Cancer UK.
When symptoms do appear, they may include frequent urination—especially at night—or difficulty starting or stopping urination. Erectile dysfunction, blood in the urine, or a persistent pain in the back, hips or pelvis area could be a tall tale sign, according to Medical News Today.
Why are Black Men at a higher risk?
Scientific studies suggest that certain genetic markers and mutations that increase prostate cancer risk are more prevalent among Black men. These differences may influence how quickly the disease develops and spreads.
“There is evidence suggesting that this is partly related to inherited genetic factors,” explained medical oncologist Andrew Laccettii, MD, during an interview with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in January. “There may be differences in tumor biology that cause this cancer in Black men to progress faster or be harder to treat, but we need to investigate this possibility further to learn more.”
Urologic surgeon Vincent Laudone, MD, noted that higher rates of obesity in the Black community, along with environmental factors such as pollution, may be contributing to the disparities in prostate cancer outcomes. Socioecnomic roadblocks often present challenges for Black men to obtain preventative screening, he explained. Limited access to healthcare, lack of insurance, and healthcare bias, further compounds the issue, often resulting in late-stage diagnoses, when the cancer is more aggressive and significantly harder to treat.
What can be done?
Experts recommend that Black men begin discussing prostate cancer screening with their doctors as early as age 40–45, especially if they have a family history of the disease. The most common tests include the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test and the digital rectal exam (DRE).
Increasing awareness in Black communities about the symptoms and risks of prostate cancer can encourage earlier testing and better outcomes. Finally, addressing disparities in healthcare access and quality is critical. Community health initiatives, policy changes, and culturally competent care all play a role in closing the gap.
Prostate cancer doesn’t affect all men equally. For Black men, the risk is higher and outcomes can be worse, but with increased awareness, early detection, and proactive healthcare, the tide can turn. Regular checkups, informed conversations with healthcare providers, and community support can make a life-saving difference.
SEE MORE:
Notable Black People Who Died From Prostate Cancer
Dexter King’s Death Spotlights Prostate Cancer, Black Men
Prostate Cancer: Symptoms In Black Men And Why The Risk Is Higher
was originally published on
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