Early Detection for Prostate Cancer

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Early detection of cancer saves lives. Screening can help detect prostate cancer at an early stage often before any signs and symptoms which are associated with more advanced disease. Prostate cancer survival rates increase when it is detected early.

However, when it comes to prostate cancer, major racial disparities exist.

Improving outcomes for Black individuals by addressing root causes of prostate cancer disparities is key to improving the disproportionate burden of prostate cancer on Black individuals in the US. We are working to ensure Congress addresses these disparities by supporting legislation to remove cost-sharing of screening for those at the highest risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer – African Americans and those with a family history of prostate cancer. We will continue to partner with other organizations and advocates at the state level to remove cost-sharing as a barrier for individuals looking to undergo prostate cancer screenings.

Prostate Cancer Disparities
 

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2.1x higher likelihood of death in Black men versus White men

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70% higher incidence rate in Black men than White men

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Leading cancer type for Black men, accounting for 37% of all new cases, 2022 estimates for US Black men:
New cases: 41,600
Deaths: 6,040

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Black men more likely to receive substandard treatment than White men; when similar 10-year survival is comparable or higher

Take Action

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Urge Congress to Remove Out of Pocket Costs for Prostate Cancer Screenings

Ensure cost is not a barrier to live-saving prostate cancer screenings. Urge your Member of Congress to cosponsor the PSA for Him Act today.

Latest Updates

June 2, 2025
Texas

Austin, TX. – With the end of the 2025 Texas legislative session, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is optimistic that more people will have access to cancer prevention and early detection services and reinforces its commitment to this effort. In reflection on the session, ACS

May 21, 2025
Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania lawmakers have taken a critical step in efforts to prevent cancer and reduce its burden on Pennsylvanians by introducing HB 281 and SB 447. If passed, the legislation would eliminate out-of-pocket costs for lifesaving prostate cancer screenings for men at high-risk of developing prostate cancer, thus reducing barriers and increasing access to care for men over 40 with certain high-risk factors.

May 18, 2025
National

According to multiple news reports, Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an “aggressive” form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones.

May 13, 2025
Pennsylvania

Over 120 volunteer advocates from across Pennsylvania, including cancer survivors, patients and caregivers, convened at the state Capitol yesterday for ‘Cancer Action Day,’ an event hosted annually by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN). Advocates met with their state lawmakers and urged them to support policies that aid in the fight against cancer.

Early Detection for Prostate Cancer Resources

The PSA Screening for HIM Act  (H.R. 1300/S. 297) would remove out-of-pocket costs for prostate cancer screening for those at highest risk for the disease. 

Prostate cancer rates for Black men are 70% higher than the rates for White men.