Prostate cancer screening saves lives, especially among black men

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed among people born with a prostate in the United States.

According to the American Cancer Society's 2023 Cancer Facts and Figures, prostate cancer mortality has declined by 50% since 1991. However, the decline has slowed likely due to the increasing number of advanced-stage prostate cancer diagnoses. Black men are 70% more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than White men and over twice as likely to die from the disease.

Prostate Cancer in the United States

This year, more than 288,300 people in the U.S. will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis. Black men are more likely to be diagnosed in an advanced stage. 

There's no sure way to prevent prostate cancer. Age, race, ethnicity, geography, and genes are all factors that might affect a person's risk. A family history of prostate cancer also increases risk, especially if the family member was under 50 years old when diagnosed. Although the effects of body weight, physical activity, and diet on prostate cancer risk aren't clear, there are things you can do that might help lower your risk, such as being physically active and following a healthy diet.

Screening Saves Lives