Harlem Word: Dr. Carlton McGregor explains who is at risk for prostate cancer

When Dr. Carlton McGregor, MD, was diagnosed with prostate cancer [1]  in fall 2024 he decided to raise awareness of the disease by telling other people about it. Family history [2] is one of the risk factors for prostate cancer-Dr. McGregor's father also had this disease. Learn more about the risk factors for prostate cancer by reading the article below.

Q: What are the risk factors for prostate cancer [1]?

A: I think the key risk factor is family history [2]. It's the most important reason why men should be screened for prostate cancer [1] because many diseases can be passed to you from your relatives. Also, older men are at increased risk-prostate cancer is most common in men over 65. Some people say that if you are on a high-fat diet, you might be at greater risk, but there is not a big link. Men who are obese [3] and diagnosed with prostate cancer are more likely to have a more serious disease that is more difficult to treat.

Q: Are men of color at higher risk for prostate cancer?

A: Yes, they are a higher risk group. They are at risk for a greater likelihood of prostate cancer [1]. Also, their outcome [4] is much worse, which is why they need to be tested. But, most black men or women in this country are at increased risk for any cancer with worse outcomes.

Q: Do you know why black men are at higher risk?

A: It is not clear why this is. Oftentimes, it's an issue of presentation [5] because the signs and symptoms [6] of prostate cancer [1] don't occur right away. It could also be an issue of denial, but I think that the late presentation of cancer is more important. Since the cancer doesn't typically have symptoms [7] in its early stages, it is important to get screened for prostate cancer [6] to know if you have it or not.

To read more about prostate cancer, Dr. McGregor recommends visiting the Mayo Clinic Prostate Cancer website [8]

Harlem Word is a series of interviews with Harlem health experts, written by HHPC and reviewed by our Health Advisory Board.