Self-Care for Black Men: Prostate Cancer Health Screenings
When it comes to prostate cancer, Black men tend to be more vulnerable than their white counterparts. Here’s why screening and prevention is especially important for Black men.
In this series of posts, I will cover topics specifically to help Black men embrace better health and wellness. My book, Self-Care for Black Men is available for purchase and you can find more information about it at this link.
When it comes to prostate cancer, Black men tend to be more vulnerable than their white counterparts. There is a racial disparity in prostate cancer rates which has been consistently observed over time. While there are many factors that contribute to the prevalence of prostate cancer, Black men seem to be at higher risk, and at younger ages. This means Black men should be particularly mindful of their risk and self-advocating for routine screenings.
A Difference in Mortality Rates
Unfortunately, not only are Black men more likely to develop prostate cancer, but they also have a higher mortality rate from the disease (than white peers). This is, in part, due to delayed screenings and late-stage diagnosis. The reasons for this delay are likely due to a lack of awareness of the need for early screening, as well as difficulty finding competent providers due to lack of insurance coverage or the prohibitive cost of care. Nonetheless, Black men should be particularly cautious of their risk early, especially if there is a family history.
The Role of Genetics
Black men need to be conscious of family history of prostate cancer risk. There is some research that suggests genetics may also play a significant role in Black men's increased susceptibility to prostate cancer. Many genetic mutations have been found to occur at a higher rate in Black men and contribute to greater, and more aggressive, risk or early onset. Ongoing research will, no doubt, continue to identify risk factors specific to Black men. Furthermore, not only can these mutations increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, they may also complicate the treatment process, making early identification and intervention key for treatment success.
The Power of Prevention
Given the increased risk and mortality rate, early detection of prostate cancer is a particularly effective, and important, strategy for Black men. In most instances, screening is completed by blood test and/or a rectal exam in office. Current screening recommendations state that men should start getting screened for prostate cancer at the age of 50 and then every 3-5 years thereafter (if not otherwise indicated). However, it may also be advisable that due to the higher risk faced by Black men, regular screenings at earlier ages might also be a helpful strategy.
To learn more about prostate cancer risk in Black men, read this post from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
4 Ways to Beat Depression Symptoms
Clinical depression can be a debilitating condition that leaves people feeling worthless and hopeless for the future, among other symptoms. According to the World Health Organization, depression affects approximately 350 million people globally. Treatment for depression often includes both talk therapy and sometimes medication as well, but there are also some lifestyle changes one can do to help alleviate their depressive symptoms.
Here are a few tips that may help you ease the impact of depression on your life.
Eat well.
And I'm not talking about dieting either. Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables can help you regulate your body's core functions and help foster mental agility. Simply put, healthier foods equal healthier minds. But, you should also feel free to treat yourself to a snack of dark chocolate every so often (if that's your thing) as it helps elevate one's mood. Just don't get too carried away because those extra calories and sugar may hurt you in the long run.
Stick to a schedule.
One of depression's most pervasive symptoms is a sense of fatigue or a general feeling of low energy. This may be accompanied by body pains. Often this causes people to stay in bed or sleep for extended periods of time which often creates a self-fulfilling prophecy of not feeling well. One way to help manage depression symptoms is to set a schedule and stick to it. If your commitment waivers, enlist the help of a friend or loved one to give you a phone call to check in and help keep you on track. When those bad days hit, having a steady routine and daily structure can help you power through.
Get moving!
Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and routine exercise has been found to be an effective adjunct to battling depression along with therapy and/or medication. You also get the benefits of lower blood pressure and better cardiovascular health which means you will feel better physically as well. Even an activity such as walking for a half hour each day can work wonders. And if you have ambulatory issues or are in a wheelchair, there are some chair exercises that can help keep you active. Just don't forget to consult with your primary care provider for individually tailored recommendations based on your medical history and current health status. What have you got to lose?
Develop a support network.
Depression is often a battle faced in isolation, leaving many without the necessary support and positive encouragement to tackle depression head on. Invite your loved ones into your journey by asking them to do activities with you or help hold you accountable. If your network is small at the moment, then speak with a therapist for local support groups in your area.While these tips are by no means cures to depression, these lifestyle changes can help empower you to take control of your process of healing and rediscovery.