Prostate Cancer Awareness Month: Safeguarding the Health of Native American Men
September is recognized as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight one of the most common cancers affecting men. For Native American men, prostate cancer awareness carries unique importance. Although prostate cancer often grows slowly, late diagnosis can be life-threatening. Awareness, timely screening, and culturally competent support are essential to reducing disparities and protecting Native men’s health in urban centers like New York City.
Understanding Prostate Cancer
The prostate is a small gland in men that produces seminal fluid. Prostate cancer occurs when cells in this gland grow uncontrollably. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS):
About 299,000 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2025.
Approximately 35,000 men will die from the disease.
About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed during their lifetime.
The good news is that most prostate cancers are detected early, when treatment is highly successful. The 5-year survival rate is over 98% for localized cases.
Prostate Cancer in Native American Men
Compared to other groups, data on prostate cancer in Native American and Alaska Native (AI/AN) men is limited but concerning:
Studies from the Indian Health Service (IHS) show AI/AN men are often diagnosed at later stages, leading to worse outcomes.
Social and structural barriers—like lower screening rates, limited insurance coverage, and mistrust of healthcare—contribute to disparities.
In urban settings such as New York City, Native men may be reluctant to seek care due to stigma around men’s health and lack of culturally competent providers.
This reality makes awareness campaigns particularly important for Native communities.
A Story from the Community
A Haudenosaunee elder living in Brooklyn shared how his prostate cancer was caught early. At age 52, he attended a men’s health event where he learned about the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test. Initially hesitant, he agreed to be screened—and the test revealed early-stage cancer. After treatment, he continues to live a full life and advocates for other Native men to get tested, saying: “Our strength as men is not in silence but in taking care of ourselves so we can care for our families.”
Symptoms and Risk Factors
Many men with prostate cancer have no symptoms in early stages, which is why screening is important. Possible signs include:
Difficulty urinating or weak urine flow
Frequent urination, especially at night
Blood in urine or semen
Pain in hips, back, or chest (later stages)
Risk factors include:
Age: Most cases occur in men over 50.
Family history: Men with a father or brother who had prostate cancer are at higher risk.
Race/Ethnicity: African American and some Native men face higher risks of advanced prostate cancer.
Diet and lifestyle: High-fat diets, obesity, and smoking may contribute to increased risk.
Screening Guidelines
There is no single “one-size-fits-all” recommendation, but major health organizations suggest:
Average-risk men: Begin discussing screening at age 50.
Higher-risk men (family history, certain genetic factors, or higher prevalence groups): Begin discussions at age 45.
Very high risk: Some experts suggest starting at 40.
Tests include:
PSA blood test: Measures prostate-specific antigen levels.
Digital rectal exam (DRE): May help detect abnormalities.
Screening decisions should be made after discussing benefits and risks with a healthcare provider.
Recommendations for Native Men
Start the conversation early with your doctor about prostate health, especially if you are 45 or older.
Know your family history—if your father, brother, or uncle had prostate cancer, your risk is higher.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Diets rich in vegetables, fish, and whole grains may lower risk.
Stay physically active—exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing risk factors.
Do not ignore urinary symptoms, even if they seem minor.
Encourage peer support: Men’s health discussions should be normalized in Native communities.
Barriers and Solutions
Stigma: Many Native men avoid discussing sensitive health issues. Solution: Create safe, male-focused education spaces.
Access to care: Uninsured or underinsured men may delay screening. Solution: Connect with community health centers and NYC free/low-cost screening programs.
Cultural disconnect: Providers may not understand Native perspectives. Solution: Train navigators and health educators who are culturally competent.
Conclusion
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month reminds us that early action saves lives. For Native American men, overcoming barriers of silence, stigma, and access is key. Screening and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce risk, while community-based support makes care more accessible and acceptable. Elders and fathers are vital pillars of Native families—protecting their health protects the future of the community. With strong advocacy and education from organizations like the New York Indian Council, Native men in New York City can lead longer, healthier lives while continuing to fulfill their roles as leaders, teachers, and protectors.
