Inspired by Corynne Corbett, BlackHealthMatters.com
When former President Joseph Biden revealed he has stage 4 prostate cancer, many were surprised. His cancer had already spread to his bones, which makes it very serious. This announcement reminded us of an urgent truth: Black men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer—and that includes men in the Caribbean and across the U.S.
At Medical Professionals on a Mission, we are committed to educating and empowering our communities. This is a call to action for every Black man—and every family who loves one.
The Reality: Black Men Face a Higher Risk
Prostate cancer is common in all men. But Black men are diagnosed at younger ages, with more aggressive disease, and often have fewer treatment options.
- 1 in 6 Black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer
- Black men are twice as likely to die from it compared to white men
- Lack of access, fear, stigma, and not getting tested early are key reasons
This is true whether you live in the Caribbean or America.
What We Can Learn from President Biden’s Diagnosis
President Biden’s cancer is aggressive, with a Gleason score of 9 out of 10, and has spread to his bones. Though it is not curable at this stage, it is treatable. Many men in his condition live for 5–10 years or more.
His story reminds us of the importance of early detection. If cancer is caught early—before it spreads—it can often be treated successfully.
Testing Is Easier Than It Used to Be
Many people still think prostate exams are painful or embarrassing. But now, testing often begins with a simple blood test called the PSA test (Prostate-Specific Antigen).
- This test checks for signs of prostate problems in your blood
- If you are Black or have a family history, start screening at age 40
- Regular screenings save lives
“Even if you’re diagnosed late, there are still treatments. It’s not an automatic death sentence,” says Brian Bragg from ZERO Prostate Cancer.
Watch for These Warning Signs
Prostate cancer usually has no symptoms in early stages, which is why testing is so important. But if you notice any of these signs, see a doctor immediately:
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- Urinating often, especially at night
- Burning or pain while urinating
- Blood in your urine or semen
- Pain in your lower back, hips, or legs
Don’t wait or try to treat it on your own. Get checked.
President Biden’s announcement is a powerful reminder: health doesn’t wait.
Prostate health demands serious attention from black men in the U.S., the Caribbean, and all our communities.
✅ Know your risk
✅ Get tested
✅ Share what you’ve learned with someone you care about
Let’s take care of each other and make early detection the norm—not the exception. For more information, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/prostate-cancer/index.html.
📲 Follow MPOM for upcoming screenings, health talks, and men’s health education.
#MPOMCares #ProstateCancerAwareness #BlackMensHealth #CancerAwarenessMonth #HealthEquity #CaribbeanHealthMatters #EarlyDetectionSavesLives
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