Prostate Cancer

Prostate Cancer is in Our Community:

What Every African and Caribbean Family in Huddersfield & Kirklees Should Know

Prostate cancer affects many men across Kirklees — but it affects Black African and Black Caribbean men more than anyone else. This leaflet is here to help you understand the risks, recognise the signs, and know where to get support that respects your culture, your family and your dignity.

What Prostate Cancer Is

The prostate is a small gland inside the body that helps make semen. Prostate cancer happens when cells in that gland start to grow in an unusual way.

It does not mean you’ve done anything wrong. It does not mean the end of your life. Many men live long, healthy lives when it’s found early.

Why African and Caribbean Men Are at Higher Risk

Across the UK, research shows that:

Black African and Black Caribbean men are more likely to develop prostate cancer
They are more likely to develop it at a younger age
They are more likely to develop a faster-growing type

Doctors don’t fully know why, but it’s linked to a mix of genetics, family history and health inequalities.

If you are a Black man over 45, or if your father or brother had prostate cancer, your risk is higher.

“Knowing your risk is power. Early checks save lives.”

Signs to Look Out For

Many men have no symptoms at all in the early stages — which is why checks matter.

But some men notice:

Needing to pee more often
Difficulty starting or stopping
A weak flow
Feeling like you can’t fully empty your bladder
Blood in urine or semen
Pain in the back, hips or pelvis

These symptoms can be caused by many things — not just cancer — but they’re always worth checking.

Getting Checked: What You Need to Know

A prostate check can include:

A simple blood test (PSA test)
A conversation about your family history
Sometimes a physical examination

You can ask your GP for a PSA test even if you have no symptoms. This is especially important for African and Caribbean men over 45.

You can bring a family member, friend or faith leader with you if that helps.

Breaking the Silence in Our Community

Many African and Caribbean men don’t talk about prostate cancer because of fear, embarrassment or stigma.

But silence puts lives at risk.

“Talking about it doesn’t make you weak — it makes you wise.”

Faith, family and community are powerful sources of strength. Use them.

Support in Huddersfield & Kirklees

You can speak to:

- Kam’s Corner — for support
- Your GP — for checks, tests and advice
- Kirklees Public Health and local NHS services — for information and support

Macmillan Support — for helplines and community friendly resources

Prostate Cancer UK — for helplines and community-friendly resources
Local African and Caribbean community groups and churches — safe spaces to talk and learn

All conversations are confidential and respectful.

Protecting Your Health

You can reduce your risk by:

Staying active
Eating more fruit, veg and whole foods
Managing blood pressure and diabetes
Knowing your family history
Getting checked early

These steps support your whole health — not just your prostate.

You Are Not Alone

Prostate cancer is common, treatable, and survivable — especially when found early. Your life, your health and your future matter.

“Strong men get checked. Wise men get checked. Loved men get checked.”