The recent death of “Black Panther” star Chadwick Boseman at the age of 43 highlighted the disproportionate effect colon cancer has on men of African descent. In fact, colon cancer is 30% more common in men than women, with people of African descent having the highest rates of colon cancer compared to other ethnic groups in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society (1). African-Americans also have a higher incidence of lifestyle diseases, such as obesity and tobacco-related illnesses, which are also associated with colon cancer.
To reduce the likelihood of colon cancer, particularly for high-risk patients, experts recommend adopting healthier lifestyle choices. Experts also recommend regular colon cancer screening for men over 50 so that doctors can catch any abnormal colon growths early and remove them before they turn cancerous.
References:
1. American Cancer Society. Colorectal Facts & Figures 2020-2022. Atlanta: American Cancer Society; 2020. Accessible at: https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/colorectal-cancer-facts-figures.html. (Last accessed: 11 December 2020)