7 myths about Prostate Cancer debunked by #BlackProstateCheckChallenge

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and just like any other diseases, there are myths about this one.

Stats

According to Zero Prostate, Black and African American men are much more likely to develop prostate cancer. One in six Black men will develop prostate cancer in his lifetime—compared to one in eight men overall. Black men are 1.7 times more likely to be diagnosed with—and 2.1 times more likely to die from—prostate cancer than white men.

Prostate Cancer awareness challenge

Civil Rights icon Charles D. Neblett, PhD.’s family nonprofit organization Community Projects, Inc. has created a new initiative, the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge, asking Black prostate cancer survivors and patients to post their journeys using the hashtag simply.

The purpose of the initiative is to open dialogue, overcome stigmas and fears, capture snapshots of experiences, and share information and resources to reveal the complex issues of health equity concerns among Black men.

In honor of Prostate Awareness Month, the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge initiative has created 7 myths about the afflicting disease.

Check out the 7 myths about prostate cancer debunked by #BlackProstateCheckChallenge

1. Black men get prostate cancer just like every other race. No. According to the American Cancer Society, the prevalence of prostate cancer is greater in Black males, affecting one out of every six, compared to one out of every eight white men. In addition, black men experience a greater mortality rate from prostate cancer, which is twice as high as that of white men. White men have historically enjoyed the privilege of receiving cancer treatments, which accounts for the difference in mortality rates. A recent Keck School of Medicine of USC study found nine previously undiscovered genetic variants that increase the risk of prostate cancer in men of African ancestry, with seven of these variants being found mostly or exclusively in Black men.
2. “I don’t have prostate cancer if I have no symptoms.” No. Black men are being diagnosed in later stages and with more specific aggressive prostate cancer. Sexual partners are key supporters to encourage men to notice symptoms like more frequent trips to restroom in middle of the night or a difference is sexual performance. By the time Black men notice symptoms, they could be in a later stage than white men. If a Black man has a grandfather or father who has prostate cancer, they should be getting a DRE exam by age 35-38 because they are now at risk.
3. Every hospital lab has the same standard imaging equipment. No. You should ask what year your radiation machine was built. 30% of men getting radiated for prostate cancer are treated with older, lower energy machines. Patients should work with their doctor to stay on top of their imaging as well as their PSA test results.
4. “There is one best way to treat prostate cancer.” No, a patient and a doctor should have “shared decision-making.” You should have an open, trusted relationship to decide the route that’s the best individualized for you based on your genetics, health history, age, stage, and lifestyle. Every prostate cancer patient should have access to a nutritionist.
5. “Every male should get screening as soon as possible.” No. Black men have the highest false-positive results. There have not been enough Black men studied in clinical trials to support that early screening prevents prostate cancer.
6. “Prayer and spirituality can’t help cancer.” Cancer can help patients to focus on what truly matters, and prompt us to live with a heightened consciousness of our ultimate priorities. The current data suggests that added stress or trauma can contribute to more aggressive cancer.
7. “Cancer care is covered by Medicare.” No. The average cost of Stage 4 prostate cancer is more than $93,000 annually, according to the American Cancer Society. The Medicare for All Act was introduced in Senate (05/17/2023). It would establish a national health insurance program that is administered by the Department of Health and Human Services. It has not passed.