As the leaves begin to fall and the days shorten, we welcome November, a month that means many things. For some, it’s the countdown to Christmas. For others, it’s a time to grow a beard for a good cause. But most importantly, November is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and I need to talk directly to you, Black men, because your health cannot wait.
Let’s not sugar-coat this: Prostate cancer is hitting Black men the hardest.In the UK, Black men are twice as likely to be diagnosed and more likely to die from it than their white counterparts. In the US, the stats are even more stark. And yet, so many of our men aren’t getting checked, aren’t talking about it, and aren’t putting themselves first.
There’s a silent strength that’s been passed down through generations. “just get on with it”, “don’t complain”, “real men don’t go to doctors.” But strength isn’t in suffering. Strength is in showing up for yourself. Strength is in staying alive for the people who love you.
Prostate cancer doesn’t often scream. It whispers. It’s slow-growing in some cases, aggressive in others. Early on, there may be no symptoms. That’s why early detection is everything. A simple PSA blood test can spot it before it becomes a bigger problem. And no, the test doesn’t involve anything invasive to start with, just a conversation and a bit of blood. That’s all.
So this November, I’m asking, no, I’m urging Black men aged 45 and over (or 40 if there’s a family history) to have that conversation with your GP. Ask the question. Make the appointment. Bring a brother with you. Take your son, your uncle, your dad, your bredrin. Turn it into a movement.
Because the truth is, we need you. Your family needs you. Your community needs you. We need you well.
Prostate cancer is treatable when caught early. But you can’t treat what you don’t know. So this November, make a decision to take charge of your health. Get checked. Talk about it. Share this with a brother who needs to hear it.
We can’t afford to lose any more of our men to silence.
Be bold. Be proactive. Be here.
Boom your appointment today!
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