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BACPAC is addressing the alarming prostate cancer disparities affecting Black men through innovative patient-centered research that transforms how cancer care is delivered. Black men are 2-2.4 times more likely to die from prostate cancer and 60-70% more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive forms, making this community-driven approach essential for creating effective solutions.

• BACPAC stands for Black and African Descent Collaborative for Prostate Cancer Action.
• The organization brings together researchers, patient advisors, and community members.
• Black men often face barriers when requesting PSA screening despite higher risk factors.
• Current research projects include STAR (post-surgery care), GEMS (aggressive cancer factors), and resource toolkit development.
• Virtual research community connects over 2,500 people, including 1,500+ prostate cancer survivors.
• Patient advisors provide critical insights that shape research questions and methodologies.
• Research focuses on solutions rather than just documenting existing disparities.
• Cultural context matters - many Black men prefer PSA blood tests over digital rectal exams.
• The organization aims to become independent to influence prostate cancer research nationally.
• The annual symposium on October 4th will share research findings and build community connections.

Join us at bacpacnetwork.org to connect with our virtual research community, participate in surveys, or become a patient advisor. Support our upcoming walk/run/bike event by searching for "BACPAC" team at obliteride.org.

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Bad Science: Changes in politics and ideology do not change our need to be vigilant.

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Dr. Richard Ferguson, Chief Medical Officer at Health Choice of Utah and founder of Black Physicians of Utah, shares his journey from military surgeon to health equity champion and discusses strategies for improving healthcare outcomes for Black men.

• Board-certified in family practice with experience in emergency medicine and military service
• Founded Black Physicians of Utah to increase representation and provide support for Black physicians
• Military service as a battalion surgeon in Iraq profoundly influenced his humanitarian work
• Currently leads Black Physicians of Utah with approximately 30 Black physician members
• Organizes community health events focused on brain health, Alzheimer's awareness, and cardiovascular fitness
• Addresses cultural barriers to mental health treatment within Black communities
• Advocates for regular preventive care visits, bringing support to medical appointments
• Recommends 150 minutes of physical activity weekly and utilizing public health resources
• Emphasizes the importance of early intervention and not waiting until symptoms are severe
• Creates pathways for Black students to enter medicine through mentorship programs

To learn more about Black Physicians of Utah and upcoming events, visit bpou.org or find them on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn under Black Physicians of Utah.

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Bad Science: Changes in politics and ideology do not change our need to be vigilant.

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Urologic Oncologist, Dr. Yaw Nyame, joins us to discuss the critical yet often overlooked aspects of men's urologic health. We explore how modern detection methods can identify problems before symptoms appear, potentially saving lives through early intervention.

• Urologic health involves the entire urinary system plus male sexual organs
• Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 men overall, but 1 in 6 Black men
• Black men are 60% more likely to get prostate cancer and twice as likely to die from it
• Waiting for symptoms before seeking care is often "waiting until it's too late"
• Early relationship-building with primary care physicians supports better lifelong health
• Testosterone replacement therapy carries significant risks and isn't appropriate for most men
• Cancer screening can often detect issues before symptoms develop
• Patient-partnered research helps create interventions that better serve community needs
• Simple practices like testicular self-examination should begin in your 20s

Talk to your family about cancer history, establish a medical home early in life, and don't wait for pain before seeking healthcare. Prevention is always better than treatment.

Bad Science: Changes in politics and ideology do not change our need to be vigilant.

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Dr. Avi Baskin joins us to discuss President Biden's aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis and what it means for men's health screening practices. We explore how prostate cancer can grow silently for years before symptoms appear and why screening recommendations matter.

• Screening vs. diagnostic testing for prostate cancer explained
• How the President's diagnosis aligns with typical presentation patterns among older men
• Current screening guidelines and debates about when to stop screening
• Treatment options for metastatic prostate cancer and potential outcomes
• The increased aggressiveness of prostate cancer diagnosed in older men
• Why early baseline screening starting at age 40-45 is recommended for high-risk groups
• The importance of not waiting for symptoms to appear before getting tested

Support this podcast by writing to [email protected] or becoming a supporter at buymeacoffee.com/RealHealthBlackMen.

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Two men share their stories about prostate cancer, offering raw testimonies that could save lives. Philip Atkins and Stephen Harris share their deeply personal journeys from diagnosis through treatment – each following different paths but united by courage and determination.

Philip discovered his prostate cancer in 2023 during a routine kidney transplant follow-up. When his PSA registered at 11.8, doctors confirmed Stage 3+4 Gleason 7 cancer. Due to his transplant, Philip underwent brachytherapy, radiation, and hormone therapy instead of surgery. 

Stephen's story reveals the importance of vigilance. Despite regular screening, his 2018 diagnosis showed cancer had already spread to his hip and lymph nodes. Now living with incurable cancer, Stephen manages it through Lupron injections and daily Xtandi tablets, while battling side effects like depression, dehydration, and weight fluctuations.

Both men highlight how the Zero Prostate Cancer Black Men's Therapy Group transformed their experiences. This biweekly gathering offers emotional support and practical knowledge about treatments, medications, and coping strategies. They emphasize family support as crucial – Philip credits lifestyle changes and his wife's understanding attitude, while Stephen celebrates 50 years of marriage to a woman he says saved his life.

Whether you're concerned about your own health or supporting someone you love, these stories offer invaluable wisdom from those walking the journey. Listen, learn, and most importantly, take action.

Bad Science: Changes in politics and ideology do not change our need to be vigilant.

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Dr. Jeff Tosoian reveals a groundbreaking advancement in prostate cancer detection that could save thousands of lives, especially among Black men who face double the risk of both diagnosis and death from this disease. The newly available My Prostate Score 2.0 (MPS2.0) test represents years of meticulous research aimed at solving one of medicine's most persistent challenges: accurately identifying dangerous prostate cancers while reducing unnecessary procedures.

Growing up with parents diagnosed with multiple cancers, including his father's unusually early prostate cancer diagnosis in his 40s, Dr. Teshoian's personal mission led him from laboratory research to developing practical solutions for patients. He explains how traditional PSA testing, while valuable, often results in unnecessary biopsies because it's prostate-specific but not cancer-specific. In fact, approximately 75% of prostate biopsies performed after elevated PSA readings alone come back negative.

The real innovation of the MPS2 test lies in its ability to detect 18 genetic markers specifically associated with aggressive prostate cancers - the kind that actually requires treatment. Through urine testing that can be completed at home, this breakthrough can prevent between one-third and one-half of unnecessary biopsies while still identifying 95% of dangerous cancers.

This episode offers hope through scientific advancement for listeners concerned about prostate health, particularly Black men at higher risk. The MPS2 test requires a doctor's prescription but provides a clear, actionable risk assessment without invasive procedures. Ask your doctor about MPS2 today—it might be the most important health decision you make this year.

Bad Science: Changes in politics and ideology do not change our need to be vigilant.

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In our latest episode, my two brothers and I share our heart-wrenching and yet inspiring journeys through prostate cancer. From early diagnosis to treatment pathways, our discussions delve into the emotional and mental health implications of navigating this battle. You’ll hear firsthand the importance of regular check-ups and community support in managing prostate health, especially for Black men who are at a higher risk.

We've come together not just as siblings but as advocates for better health awareness. Our stories reflect resilience and hope, reminding every listener that facing health challenges can be a journey filled with support, love, and strength. With insights on handling diagnosis, managing the emotional impact, and the power of family support, this episode serves as a powerful call to action for men everywhere to prioritize their health. 

Whether you’re currently on your own health journey or know someone who is, our message is clear: you’re not alone. Let’s break the silence and encourage each other to seek the care we need. Tune in and take the essential steps to empower yourself or someone you care about. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences with us after listening!

Bad Science: Changes in politics and ideology do not change our need to be vigilant.

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The discussion focuses on understanding and improving Black men's health through a community-driven approach to wellness. We explored health challenges specific to Black men alongside the importance of holistic living. Dr. John Vassell provided insights into the medical landscape while fostering awareness of the social determinants affecting health.

• Need for community support in navigating health 
• Focus on holistic health rather than just ailments 
• Understanding how social determinants impact health outcomes 
• Importance of proper diet and exercise 
• Effective communication with healthcare providers 
• Proactive measures for managing common health issues 
• Encouragement of cultural identity in dietary choices 
• Building a framework for better health management 

To support this podcast, go to buymeacoffee.com/realhealthblackmen.

Bad Science: Changes in politics and ideology do not change our need to be vigilant.

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The journey toward health empowerment is deeply personal, filled with challenges, triumphs, and necessary conversations. Through sharing stories of cancer survival, chronic health issues, and the essential support of community, this episode dives into understanding health disparities in Black communities and the tools available for taking control of our health. 

• Personal stories of health challenges and survival 
• The significance of family health history 
• The impact of prostate cancer as a life-altering wake-up call 
• Distinction between health and healthcare, and the need for awareness 
• Importance of early detection and treatment options 
• Breaking the stigma around mental health within the community 
• The role of community support in fostering health education 
• Encouragement to seek knowledge and take control of health decisions

Support the show

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