To spread more awareness and provide resources during National Prostate Cancer Awareness in the month of September, members of the Athens Alumni of Kappa Alpha Psi hosted their second annual Prostate Cancer Summit at Timothy Road Baptist Church.
The purpose of this event was to encourage men to be self-advocates not only for themselves but for their loved ones when it comes to making sure, they’re getting tested for prostate cancer.
Dr. Stalina Gowdie, a primary care physician, was a panelist and she explained when men should get tested.
“So prostate cancer, unfortunately, is one of those very common cancers, especially in the African American population,” said Gowdie, "So, it is very important to get screened. Definitely, I would say having that conversation with your doctor as to when screening should be started."
But the rectal exam isn’t always the first option for men who are wondering how they should get tested.
“The first test typically is performed through the blood test,” said Gowdie “There is also the rectal exam, a digital exam where we feel the prostate to see if it's enlarged. Also, a test that could be performed, not always needing to be performed at the beginning.”
Men the age of 50 years old or older are encouraged to start getting tested but genetics can be a factor. If there is a family history of prostate cancer, men may need to be tested in their 40’s.
Floyd Downer, a prostate cancer survivor, was a part of a panel discussion to encourage other men to talk about getting regular checkups to see if their family has a history of prostate cancer.
“It's vitally important that we spread the word about this, because it could have a family history like it was in my case, my uncle myself, then my brother that's next to me,” said Downer.
Battling cancer can place a financial burden on not only the patient, but for their family as well. Tina Laseter, the Development director for the Cancer Foundation, wants others to know that they don’t have to fight this battle alone.
“It's the support that is outside of medical care. So, we help them with rent, transportation, utilities,” said Laseter.
People at this event were able to leave with more knowledge, awareness, and resources, knowing that the fight against cancer doesn’t have to be a battle that one person has to fight alone.
