Understanding the Higher Risk of Prostate Cancer Among African American Men: Genetics, Stigma, and Solutions

September is prostrate cancer awareness month. More than just understanding the information and facts about prostrate cancer. It is even more imperative to take action. Some of the most pertinent questions around the matter include;
Why Are African American Men More Prone to Prostate Cancer?
One significant challenge in addressing prostate cancer among African American men is the stigma associated with prostate cancer screening, particularly the digital rectal exam (DRE). Many men find this test embarrassing, which can deter them from seeking early diagnosis. However, enduring a moment of discomfort is far better than leaving yourself and your loved ones vulnerable to a life-threatening condition that could have been prevented with early detection.

African American men are almost twice as likely to be diagnosed with and die from prostate cancer compared to white men. Furthermore, they often develop prostate cancer at younger ages. While prostate cancer affects one in every eight men overall, for African American men, the odds increase to one in every six.

Worried male

The Role of Genetics and Hormones
Testosterone, the male sex hormone, plays a crucial role in the development of prostate cancer. The cancer cells rely on testosterone to fuel their growth, which is why hormone therapy is often used to treat prostate cancer. This therapy works by blocking testosterone in the body, depriving the cancer cells of their primary resource for growth.

On average, African American men have 2.5 to 4.9 percent higher levels of testosterone than white men. While this may seem like a small difference, when spread across a population, these elevated testosterone levels can significantly influence cancer risk and progression. Higher testosterone levels could also contribute to faster-growing and more aggressive prostate cancers, making treatment more challenging if the disease is not caught early.

Additionally, genetic mutations such as those in the BRCA gene have been linked to higher cancer risks. The BRCA gene, often referred to as the “tumor suppression gene,” produces proteins that repair damaged DNA. A mutation in this gene can increase cancer risk significantly. Preliminary studies have indicated that African American men may have a higher frequency of BRCA gene mutations compared to white men, though more research is needed to confirm this. Genomic profiling can help individuals understand their genetic risks and take appropriate steps, such as more frequent cancer screenings.

Socioeconomic Barriers and Racial Bias in Healthcare
The disparity in prostate cancer outcomes between African American men and other racial groups extends beyond genetics and hormones. Historically, African American men have faced socioeconomic barriers and racial bias in healthcare, which have contributed to lower screening rates and delayed treatment.

A study found that African American men were 27 percent less likely to receive treatment for prostate cancer than white men. This discrepancy is often attributed to a lack of patient education, poor communication between doctors and patients, and inadequate representation of African American healthcare professionals.

Limited access to healthcare resources has also played a role in the delayed diagnosis of prostate cancer among African American men. Without adequate screenings, many cases are not detected until the cancer has progressed to an advanced stage, which greatly reduces the chances of successful treatment.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Prostate Cancer
Routine prostate cancer screenings are crucial for early detection and successful treatment. While men generally begin screening around age 50, African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer should start screenings earlier, at around age 40 or 45.

Screening methods include the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and the digital rectal exam (DRE), both of which help detect abnormalities in the prostate gland.

In addition to regular screenings, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce prostate cancer risk. Exercise regularly, limit your intake of red meat, processed foods, saturated fats, and dairy products, and focus on a balanced diet to support overall health.

Addressing the higher risk of prostate cancer in African American men requires a combination of awareness, early screening, and lifestyle changes. By overcoming stigma and seeking timely medical care, men can protect themselves and improve their chances of surviving prostate cancer.