It was reported this week that the Oscar-winner actor, Louis Gossett Jr., aged 74, was diagnosed with prostate cancer.  It is in an early stage and he has begun intensive treatment. He said in a statement that he wants to “set an example for the large number of African-American men who are victims of this disease because of the comparatively low emphasis in our community on preventive examinations and early treatment.”

Prostate cancer is the single most diagnosed non-skin cancer among African-American men. The chances of getting it are 1 in 3 if a close relative, such as a father or brother has it. Since there are no noticeable symptoms while it is in the early stages, early screening is very important. Men over the age of 45, (age 40 in high risk groups) should be screened annually.

There are several tests that are used for screening purposes. One is the PSA – Prostate Specific Antigen, which is a blood test that will tell you if you need further testing. It is important to know that there are two PSA tests – the Hybritech PSA and the WHO standard. Doctors and patients need to know which test the lab performed to interpret the results correctly. Another screening test is the DRE – Digital Rectal Exam, where the doctor will feel for bumps or abnormalities on the prostate. This test will also alert the doctor if you need further testing. If cancer is suspected, a biopsy will be performed.

If one is diagnosed with prostate cancer, there are many types of treatment options. Know that when caught in its early stages, this type of cancer is very treatable, and has a 100% cancer free rate after 5 years.

Remember to encourage your husbands, fathers, brother, dads and friends to get screened. I wish Mr. Gossett and others with this diagnosis the best, and I thank him for highlighting the importance of screening.