Prostate Cancer Rates and Impact on Black Men
According to the American Association for Cancer Research, it is the most common non-skin cancer in men and the second deadliest after lung cancer. Prostate cancer impacts men of all backgrounds but there is a significant impact on the lives of Black men. According to a 2025 report from the American Cancer Society, Black men are almost 70% more likely than white men to develop prostate cancer in their lifetime and twice as likely to die from the disease. Research also indicates early detection can be very influential in recovery and remission.
Understanding the Disease
Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the male reproductive organ called the prostate. The prostate is known for where sperm production takes place. Sometimes, cancer cells can develop within the glands of the prostate, prompting symptoms such as frequent urination, urinary discoloration, as well as erectile dysfunction. According to the Cleveland Clinic website, men ages 50 and above are more likely to be diagnosed and recommendations for yearly check ups should start in their 40’s. African American men with a family history are also indicators for diagnosis as well.
Barriers in the Black Community
There is no doubt that the African American community has a distrusting relationship with the medical community. Misinformation, lack of access, and environmental factors such as pollution and food deserts are but a few bi-product of this troubling relationship. Awareness of symptoms and resources is key to ensuring other African American men continue to be healthy.
Public Figures Raising Awareness
Several high profile African American men have dealt with prostate cancer such as the late former Secretary of State Colin Powell, television anchor Al Roker, entertainers Harry Belafonte and Sidney Pointier, and athlete Ken Griffey Sr. Many of whom have spoken on the importance of yearly checks and breaking the stigma around it.
Breaking the Stigma
Writer Molly Lipson, in her 2022 article for Men’s Health, “Black Men and Prostate Cancer”, writes, “Much is unknown about the biological reasons behind these shocking statistics, but there are some key cultural and socio-economic theories that feed into the problem…four high-profile Black actors, Morgan Freeman, Idris Elba, Micheal Ward and Chiwetel Ejiofor, who challenge the idea that discussing the illness with family and friends is something to be ashamed of. ‘Don’t let embarrassment stop you from having this important conversation,’ Freeman says in the film. ‘You may save someone’s life,’ adds Ejiofor”.
Key Resources
Key resources for prostate cancer awareness include Prostate Cancer Foundation, ZERO Prostate Cancer, and the National Cancer Institute.
