Black men have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer than men from other ethnic groups in the UK. Prostate Cancer UK estimates that about 1 in 4 Black men will develop prostate cancer during their lifetime — around twice the risk for other men.
Black men can also develop prostate cancer at a younger age. Having a father or brother who has had prostate cancer can increase the risk further.
Read Prostate Cancer UK information for Black men.
What should Black men do?
If you are a Black man aged 45 or over, Prostate Cancer UK strongly recommends speaking to your GP about your prostate cancer risk and about the advantages and disadvantages of having a PSA blood test.
You do not need to wait until you have symptoms before discussing your risk. Prostate cancer often causes no symptoms in its early stages.
Tell your GP if your father or brother has had prostate cancer, or if close relatives have had breast, ovarian or pancreatic cancer, as some inherited gene changes can increase prostate cancer risk.
See our Risks, Symptoms and Tests Available pages for more information.
The PSA blood test
A PSA blood test measures prostate-specific antigen in the blood. It can help identify prostate problems, but it cannot by itself diagnose prostate cancer. A raised PSA can have causes other than cancer, and some people with prostate cancer do not have a raised PSA.
Your GP or practice nurse can explain the possible benefits and disadvantages so that you can make an informed decision about testing.
Read NHS information about the PSA test.
Why is the risk higher?
Researchers do not yet fully understand why Black men have a higher risk of prostate cancer. Genetics may play a part, and research is continuing to improve understanding of risk and diagnosis for Black men.
Having a higher risk does not mean that you will definitely develop prostate cancer. Knowing about the increased risk can help you make informed decisions about speaking to your GP and PSA testing.
Local support
Leeds Prostate Cancer Support Group welcomes anyone affected by prostate cancer, including partners, relatives and friends.
In Leeds, the Black Health Initiative also works to address health inequalities and support Black communities.
If you are concerned
Speak to your GP if you are worried about your risk, whether or not you have symptoms. If you notice urinary changes, blood in your urine or semen, unexplained weight loss, persistent pain or other concerning changes, seek medical advice rather than assuming they are caused by prostate cancer.
This information is intended to raise awareness of prostate cancer risk in Black men and does not replace individual advice from your GP or specialist healthcare team.