September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month: Join the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge

September marks Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and this year the spotlight is on a critical health issue affecting Black men. Prostate cancer remains a leading cause of death among Black men, with statistics revealing a stark disparity: 1 in 6 Black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, compared to 1 in 9 white men, according to the Zero Prostate Cancer organization. Even more alarming, Black men are twice as likely to die from the disease. These disparities are exacerbated by barriers like lower insurance coverage and underrepresentation in clinical trials.

Photo byPhoto by Anna Tarazevich

In response to these challenges, the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge has emerged as a powerful initiative to raise awareness and drive change. Created by Kwesi Neblett, president of Community Projects, Inc., the challenge invites Black prostate cancer survivors and patients to share their journeys using the hashtag on social media, according to a press release from Commuity Projects. Through this initiative, Black men are encouraged to share their stories, debunk myths about prostate cancer, and educate others on the importance of early detection and personalized care.

Breaking Myths with the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge

To tackle misconceptions head-on, the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge aims to educate Black men about the reality of prostate cancer. Here are 7 common myths debunked:

1. Black men get prostate cancer just like everyone else.
   False. Black men are at a higher risk, with the disease affecting 1 in 6 Black men, compared to 1 in 8 white men. Moreover, the mortality rate for Black men is twice as high as that of white men due to genetic and systemic factors, according to the National Institutes of Health.
2. If I don’t have symptoms, I don’t have prostate cancer.
   Incorrect. Many Black men are diagnosed at later stages when symptoms become apparent. Early screening is critical, especially for those with a family history.
3. Every hospital has the same equipment for cancer treatment.
   Not true. Older radiation machines are still in use at many hospitals, and Black men are more likely to be treated with less advanced equipment. Always ask your doctor about the age and effectiveness of the radiation machines used, according to Commuity Projects.
4. There’s one best way to treat prostate cancer.
   Wrong. Treatment should be personalized. It’s essential to work with a healthcare provider to create a plan tailored to your genetics, health history, and lifestyle.
5. Early screening always prevents prostate cancer.
   False. Black men have a higher rate of false positives. Clinical trials focused on Black men are still needed to determine the best screening guidelines.
6. Prayer and spirituality have no role in cancer treatment.
   Misleading. While spirituality cannot cure cancer, it can play an important role in mental well-being and help patients focus on their health priorities.
7. Medicare covers all cancer treatments.
   Unfortunately, no. The average cost of treating Stage 4 prostate cancer is $93,000 annually, NBC News reported in 2010. Medicare might not cover all of the expenses.

Meet the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge Expert Panel

The challenge brings together a panel of healthcare professionals and community leaders to foster dialogue and support Black men in their fight against prostate cancer. The panel includes:

• Kwesi Neblett, President of Community Projects, Inc.
• Dr. Lisa Cooper, MD at Johns Hopkins and author of "Why Are Health Disparities Everyone’s Problem?"
• Dr. Otis Brawley, Oncologist at Johns Hopkins
• Dr. Clayton Yates, PhD, Clinical Research Specialist in prostate cancer among African American men
• Dr. Naysha Isom, MD, a holistic wellness doctor
• Doug Davis, Community Activist

Together, they are committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by Black men and advocating for better access to care, improved screening techniques, and a stronger focus on personalized, equitable treatment options.