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We thrive when our communities thrive. The opposite is also true — when we overlook our health, we can negatively affect those around us.
With 1 in 6 Black men diagnosed with prostate cancer (PC), the disease affects not only fathers, husbands, brothers, and sons, but also our friends and coworkers.
Being honest about our prostate health isn’t easy, but it’s necessary. And talking about prostate cancer doesn’t stop with our families. We’ve got to include our larger communities in these conversations because it affects us all. Looking out for one another is what we do.
What are the ingredients we can use to make a difference against prostate cancer?
- Early conversations with our doctors about PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test screening
- Tracking our PSA levels
- Having empowered conversations with our health care teams
- Talking about our PC risks with our family and other Black men
“I think the biggest thing is that nobody thinks it can happen to them. Then as you start to read and you start to understand, and you start to realize there are a lot of things that are more prevalent in our communities.”
Shannon Sharpe,
Pro Football Hall of Famer, Host of Club Shay Shay,
Talk That Talk™ Ambassador, Prostate Cancer Survivor
It’s not easy to talk about prostate cancer (PC). And it can be especially tricky to speak with our families about it. But that’s exactly why we have to do it. If you’re worried about being vulnerable around your family members, try thinking of it like this: You are doing this for them — not just for yourself.
Our families depend on us as pillars of strength, and we want them to know they can count on us for support.
But if we don’t let others know what we’re going through, how can they help?
How will they know how best to support us?
Staying on top of our health is not only going to the doctor and doing all the things we need to do as men, but it’s also letting those close to us in to uplift us should our doctors discover something that impacts our health. Prostate cancer can be serious, but, if caught early enough, it is possible to protect our health.
Your Talk, Your Walk Handbook
Your Talk, Your Walk Handbook is created to help you better understand your prostate health experience. Customize and download a copy of your plan on topics like screening and treatment options.
The Importance of Being Vulnerable
Our families can be a priceless source of strength, guidance, and support. It may seem difficult at first to share details with them and ask for their help, but having them involved will allow them to be there for you when you need it most.
It may even surprise you to realize how ready they are to support you through the journey ahead. Here are some ways you can make these conversations easier:
- Take the time to plan what you’re going to say before approaching them with your news (and write down your thoughts). It will help keep you calm and organized throughout the process.
- Don’t assume they haven’t noticed anything different about your behavior or your health — they probably have! So let them know how they can help support you during treatment.
- They may have more questions than you’re able to answer. That’s natural. Try and give them the information you do know and let them know how they can best help you as you sort things out. Try phrases like, “This is what my doctor has shared so far,” or “Would you like to read through this information with me?”
Prostate cancer (PC) is a disease that doesn’t get enough attention in our community. If we can get other Black men talking about PC, and encourage them to talk with their doctors and get screened, we can make an impact and help save the lives of Black men.
If talking our talk increases our awareness of PC, then speaking with our doctors about early detection is the action we need to make a difference.
Talk That Talk™ Stories
Talk That Talk™ Stories are a series of videos of Black men having honest discussions about their prostate health. Let’s make talking about PC a routine thing.
Are you ready to be proactive about your health? Alright then. Time to Talk That Talk™.
“Talk That Talk™, don’t be afraid to go see the doctors if something’s not right. Get screened early.”
Shannon Sharpe,
Pro Football Hall of Famer, Host of Club Shay Shay,
Talk That Talk™ Ambassador, Prostate Cancer Survivor
We’re no stranger to facing tough odds. That’s why we need to talk about prostate health, even if it initially seems complicated and frightening. When facing a prostate cancer (PC) diagnosis, we may ask ourselves:
- Who do I trust?
- Who’s really on my side?
- Who’s going to be there for me if I get sick?
- How will this affect my future or my loved ones?
These questions can help reveal whose support is available without asking. It’s important to take note of these people, keep them close, and communicate the kind of support you need from them.
Talk That Talk™ With Your Community
The more we lead by example and open up, the more comfortable other men will feel about doing the same. Get tips on how to self-advocate and build your circle of trust to stay on top of your prostate health.
Building a Solid Circle of Support and Trust
It’s important to have a support network to help you succeed with your prostate health goals. Your circle of family and friends can assume many responsibilities and offer a range of viewpoints. Here are some ways members of your community can help you:
- Your next-door neighbor may be able to run errands or watch your kids while you’re at a doctor’s appointment
- A significant other or your grown children can help provide you with the emotional encouragement you need to remain strong throughout your journey. They can also be another set of ears and advocate for you during your doctor appointments
- The members of your church may be able to offer prayers or spiritual guidance
- Your favorite cousin may have had prostate cancer himself and can relate to your experience and share
Whoever you have around you, they want to see you healthy and happy. You can ask for their support while also using the links below:
Paying for Your Healthcare Expenses
Prostate Cancer Advocacy Organizations & Support
Genetic Testing Services
Find Health Fairs and Screenings Near You
