Every November also known as Movember men across the country grow mustaches to spark conversations around men’s health. But behind the facial hair and hashtags lies a deeper issue: prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men (after skin cancer) and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among American men.
The good news? When detected early, prostate cancer is highly treatable.
The bad news? Many men don’t get screened until it’s too late especially Black men, who face significantly higher risks of both diagnosis and mortality.
This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we’re not just raising awareness we’re raising our voices for prevention, equity, and action.
Prostate Cancer by the Numbers
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About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
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Black men are 70% more likely to develop prostate cancer and more than twice as likely to die from it compared to white men.
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Risk increases with age, particularly after age 50.
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When detected early, the five-year survival rate is nearly 100%.
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Despite these facts, many men remain unaware or hesitant to get screened due to stigma, lack of access, or misunderstanding of their risk.
Why Screening Matters
Prostate cancer often develops without symptoms. That’s why early screening is critical, especially for those at higher risk.
The two most common screening tools are:
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PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test
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Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
According to the American Cancer Society, men should begin discussing screening at:
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Age 50 for men at average risk
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Age 45 for Black men or those with a father or brother diagnosed before age 65
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Age 40 for men with multiple first-degree relatives diagnosed at a young age
Early detection through PSA screening can identify prostate cancer years before symptoms develop, giving men more treatment options and a higher chance of survival.
Real-Life Impact: Mr. Johnson’s Wake-Up Call
Mr. Johnson, a 56-year-old retired bus driver from Prince George’s County, had never considered a prostate exam—no symptoms, no family history, no urgency.
That changed when his church hosted a men’s health fair offering free PSA testing. His test revealed elevated PSA levels, and follow-up tests confirmed early-stage prostate cancer.
Today, Mr. Johnson is cancer-free—and a passionate advocate.
“I didn’t feel sick. I was living my life. That test saved my life. Brothers—get checked.”
Reducing Risk and Building a Culture of Wellness
While some prostate cancers are linked to genetics and cannot be prevented, many risk factors can be reduced through lifestyle choices and routine care:
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Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
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Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight.
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Limit red and processed meats.
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Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol use.
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Talk to your doctor about when to begin screening.
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Break the stigma around men’s health through open conversation.
Health isn’t just physical—it’s cultural. In too many communities, seeking care is seen as weakness. Changing that narrative could save lives.
Local DMV Screening & Support Resources
Howard University Hospital – Men’s Health Initiative
Free and low-cost prostate screenings
Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center
Education, clinical trials, and care
https://lombardi.georgetown.edu
DC VA Medical Center – Urology Services
For veterans enrolled in VA healthcare
https://www.washingtondc.va.gov
Maryland Department of Health – Cancer Screening Programs
https://health.maryland.gov/cancer/pages
Inova Health – Men’s Urology & Screening Services
https://www.inova.org/healthcare-services/urology
National Resources for Education, Support, and Advocacy
Prostate Cancer Foundation
Research, treatment breakthroughs, and patient support
https://www.pcf.org
American Cancer Society – Prostate Cancer
Guidelines, FAQs, and decision tools
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer.html
ZERO Prostate Cancer
Support services, awareness campaigns, and testing locators
https://zerocancer.org
Us TOO International
Peer-led support groups for men and families affected by prostate cancer
https://www.ustoo.org
Closing Thoughts
Prostate cancer doesn’t wait—neither should we.
This November, let’s do more than grow mustaches—let’s grow a movement.
Encourage the men in your life to have the conversation. Schedule the screening. Challenge the silence.
Because silence can be deadly—but knowledge is power, and screening saves lives.
Dr. Bertrand Fote, MD, MBA, FACEP, CF2
Health Equity Advocate and Men’s Health Champion