Men’s Checklist

What African American Men Should Know

What is the Most Common Cancer for African American Men?

For many men, cancer is a word you would rather avoid. Yet, learning about cancer may help you keep your health in check. The three top cancers for men are:

Did you know about 30,000 African American men will be told they have prostate cancer this year? African American men and Caribbean men of African ancestry face a higher risk for being diagnosed with prostate cancer. They are also more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer at younger ages. It is not clear why prostate cancer affects African American men more than other racial/ethnic groups, but it is known that African American men are nearly 2.5 times more likely to die of the disease.

What Else Should African American Men Keep on their Health Checklist?

For men, urology includes the urinary tract and the male reproductive organs, or, you could think of them as the systems below the belt. Below are some other healthy living tips to keep in mind for your health checklist:

Blood Pressure: If you have a blood pressure of <120/80 mm Hg, it is a normal range, but nearly 45% of African American men have high blood pressure (hypertension).

Weight: A normal body mass index (BMI) for African American men is 18.5 to 24.9. For example, someone who is 6 feet tall can weigh up to 183 pounds and be considered at a healthy weight. But, 38% of African American men are not in that range and are considered obese. Follow up with your doctor to understand what your appropriate weight and BMI should be. Also, a preferred cholesterol range should be less than 200 mg/dL.

Sugar: Keeping check for high blood sugar levels with an A1C test can help screen for diabetes. An A1C result below 5.7% is considered normal, 5.7% to 6.4% may be a sign of prediabetes, and 6.5% or higher may be a sign of diabetes.

Sleep: You should strive to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep as an adult. Poor sleep habits may bring a higher risk for chronic disease. Consult with your doctor if you are having issues getting restful sleep.

Sex: Did you know that 30 million men have erectile dysfunction (ED) in the United States? ED may be influenced by smoking, obesity, diabetes, and sedentary life style.
Every man is unique, so talk with your doctor about the numbers and screenings right for you.

About the Urology Care Foundation

The Urology Care Foundation a leading urologic foundation and the official foundation of the American Urological Association. We provide information for those actively managing their urologic health and those ready to make health changes. Our information is based on the American Urological Association resources and is reviewed by medical experts.

To learn more, visit the Urology Care Foundation’s website, UrologyHealth.org/UrologicConditions or go to UrologyHealth.org/FindAUrologist to find a doctor near you.

Disclaimer

This information is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for professional medical advice. It is not to be used or relied on for that purpose. Please talk to your urologist or health care provider about your health concerns. Always talk to a health care provider before you start or stop any treatments, including medications.

For copies of printed materials about Prostate Cancer and other urologic conditions, visit UrologyHealth.org/Download or call 800-828-7866.

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