Dr. Neil B. Schulman, Associate Professor
Emory University School of Medicine

African-Americans have overcome many barriers and achieved much in this country but in the area of health much still needs to be done. According to the American Cancer Society, the cancer death rate for African-Americans is 33% higher than whites. The incidence of prostate cancer and mortality for African-Americans is the highest of any other racial/ethnic group in the world. Research is being conducted to determine why this is occurring.

Prostate cancer often presents without symptoms and is called a “silent killer”. The American Cancer Society recommends early detection as a defense against this disease. If detected early, chances for survival are increased. A diagnosis of cancer is no longer seen as a death sentence.

African-American men should:

• Get the facts about prostate cancer
• Learn the family medical history
• Have regular medical check-ups
• Discuss with the doctor prostate cancer risk, symptoms to report, benefits and limitations of screening exams, and when to begin screening
• Learn about healthy lifestyle choices to not only decrease cancer risk but also risk for heart disease, kidney disease and diabetes

The American Cancer Society recommends prostate cancer screening which consists of a blood test (PSA) and digital rectal exam (DRE) for African-American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer to begin at age 45.

“… to be a strong African-American man is to be responsible to those you love and to yourself. Taking care of yourself physically and mentally, is an essential part of that responsibility" (2).

Shucker, Charlene, Dr. Neil B. Schulman, and Dr. James W. Reed.
Black Man’s Guide to Good Health. Chicago: Hilton, 2000.