One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in
their lifetimes. But the risk for African American men is higher—75% higher.
“Starting in your early to mid-40s, engage in this
discussion with your family doctor,” says, Oncologist Dr. E. Ronald Hale. “Be
diligent about having regular prostate screening tests done.”
What are the risk factors?
According to Dr. Hale, the risk for prostate cancer in
African American men is 75% higher than in white men who are the same age. And
African American men have twice the risk of dying from it.
Typical risk factors include unhealthy eating and lack of
exercise, which can increase the likelihood of developing prostate cancer and
other potentially dangerous medical conditions.
Veterans of the Vietnam War should be also aware of their
elevated risk.
“Men who served in Vietnam, or otherwise had any Agent
Orange exposure should absolutely undergo regular testing,” Dr. Hale says.
“That should also be reported to their local Veteran’s Affairs Hospital.”
And while prostate cancer has no known early warning signs,
you can do a few things to help lower your overall risk.
How can you lower your risk?
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