Prostate cancer incidence rates remain significantly higher in African-American men than in white males. Between 1988 and 1992, prostate cancer rates increased dramatically due to earlier diagnosis in men without symptoms using the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. Subsequently, prostate cancer rates declined and leveled off, especially in the elderly. In men under 65, however, rates continued to increase at a less rapid rate. Rates peaked in 1992 among white men (236.4 per 100,000) persons and in 1993 among African-American men (336.6 per 100,000 persons).
Although death rates have been declining among white and African-American men since the early 1990s, rates in African-American men remain more than twice as high as rates in white men. The only well established risk factors for prostate cancer are age, ethnicity, and family history of prostate cancer.
The PSA test, a blood test used to detect a substance made by the prostate (specific antigen), and the digital rectal examination should be offered to men annually beginning at age 50. Men at high risk (African American and men who have a first degree relative diagnosed with prostate cancer at a young age) should begin testing at age 45.
To address the issue of prostrate cancer in the Shoals Metropolitan Statistical Area, a Health Initiative Action Team (HIAT) has been formed by the Extension county agent, the American Cancer Society, health care workers, cancer survivors and other interested parties. The HIAT will implement the man-to-man program.
The man-to-man program helps men to cope with prostate cancer by providing educational information to the community and support to patients and their families. Man-to-man outreach efforts play an important role in community education about prostate cancer, encouraging men and health care professionals to actively consider screening for prostate cancer.
Sources: Summary of Cancer Control Community Assessment Colbert and Lauderdale Count Cancer Facts & Figures 2003