Prostate Cancer Among Latino Men

By Jim Marshall

Prostate cancer among Latino men is growing rapidly and it is a momentous burden for them in Arizona and across the U.S. It turns out that this cancer is the most identified cancer among Latino men. 

Trend is Climbing

Prostate cancer should be a major health concern for Latino men. Each year around 13,000 new cases are detected.  And, unfortunately, around 1,800 Latino men die annually. This has been climbing every year since 2013. And, the Latino community is trying to find ways to educate everyone about this controllable disease.

Limited Access

As we have learned, prostate cancer does not always offer warning signs. Screening is imperative and vital for catching it. However, a few issues keeps this from happening. First is the knowledge of the disease and how early detection can mean the difference between life and death. For some, undocumented status prevents them from getting health care fearing seeking help might lead to arrest and/or deportation.

Lack of Insurance

Prostate cancer among Latino men is an issue. Nonexistence insurance or even access to healthcare keeps others from getting screened. Others are not comfortable with open discussions regarding health matters. They think the digital rectal exam is the only way to check and many men want to avoid that.

However, the digital rectal exam is no longer the main method for prostate cancer screening. New technologies to screen for prostate cancer has shifted to a blood test called a prostate specific antigen (PSA). The examination measures the level of PSA in the blood.

More Awareness

Educating everyone involved including loved ones is needed about prostate cancer. Latinos would benefit from updated because catching it early is the key! More clarification and even a better description of what can happen if they do not get this screening is necessary.

Information in Spanish aimed at Latino men and their families is a must. Knowing more about screening and preventive measures might coerce more Latino men to participate in clinical studies. It comes down to all men should have equal access, education and instruction to screenings and follow-up care for this treatable cancer.

More Information

Prostate cancer among Latino men is growing and the State of Arizona maintains a website. This site contains a lot of information for anyone who needs this screening. They host the Prostrate on Site Project—a mobile unit staffed by healthcare professionals ready to screen patients for prostate cancer. Each screening takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes and you need to make an appointment. Visit https://wellness.az.gov/prostatecancer for more information.