Mathew Knowles Speaks Out To Help Save Black Men From Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the United States, with nearly 1 in 8 men being diagnosed in their lifetime. However, for Black men, the risk is even more pronounced. Studies show that Black men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer compared to their white counterparts. This disparity in outcomes is a critical public health issue, one that has long been overlooked.
In a powerful conversation with Mathew Knowles, the music mogul known for his pioneering work in the industry, and Courtney Bugler, the CEO of Zero Prostate Cancer, we discussed the need for increased awareness, education and support for Black men at risk of prostate cancer.
Mathew Knowles, best known for his success in the music world, has a personal connection to prostate cancer that goes beyond his professional endeavors. "My grandfather died of prostate cancer, and four of my five uncles passed from it," Knowles shared. "I also found out that I'm BRCA2 mutated, which means I have a higher risk of prostate cancer, along with pancreatic cancer, male breast cancer, and melanoma."
In December of last year, Knowles faced a new scare when his PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels were higher than normal. While he was fortunate to receive the all-clear after further testing, his experience underscored the importance of regular screening and early detection. Prostate cancer, when detected early, can often be treated successfully, yet many men delay or avoid testing due to misconceptions and stigma.
Courtney Bugler, CEO of Zero Prostate Cancer, emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues in the Black community. "What most people don't realize is that prostate cancer is diagnosed as frequently as breast cancer, yet it doesn't have the same level of public awareness or support," Bugler noted. "For Black men, the risk is even higher. They're diagnosed younger, and the cancer can be more aggressive."
Cultural barriers and a pervasive stigma surrounding men's health are major obstacles to addressing prostate cancer. In many Black communities, a culture of silence around health issues and the traditional idea of "manning up" can prevent men from seeking the care they need.
"The truth is, Black men often avoid health screenings because of fear or misinformation," Knowles explained. "We still think of the old, painful prostate exam, but that's not the reality today. It's a simple needle test, and it only takes about 10 seconds."
To address this stigma, Knowles and Bugler are advocating for an open, candid conversation about prostate cancer, much like the awareness campaigns that have helped bring breast cancer into the spotlight.
"We need to go to barbershops, churches, and fraternities," Knowles stressed. "We need to be loud and clear that early detection saves lives. Our goal is to save 100,000 lives in the next decade."
One of the most promising steps in addressing the crisis is Zero Prostate Cancer's "Blitz The Barriers" initiative. This $20 million campaign is designed to address the healthcare disparities that affect Black men and other high-risk populations.
"At Zero, we are targeting communities with the greatest needs," Bugler said. "Nationally, Black men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer than white men. In cities like Atlanta, that number can be as high as five times greater."
The initiative focuses on increasing access to screenings and education in these underserved areas, working directly with local healthcare providers to ensure that people understand their risk and have the resources they need to take action.
"Early detection is key," Bugler continued. "There are more options for treatment when prostate cancer is caught early. And through initiatives like Blitz the Barriers, we're giving men the tools they need to live longer, healthier lives."
Knowles' own story highlights the importance of early detection. "I was fortunate to be diagnosed with male breast cancer at Stage 1A, which is early enough to avoid chemotherapy and radiation. Instead, I took a pill for five years every day. The difference between finding cancer early and finding it late is monumental," he said.
Both Knowles and Bugler stressed that lifestyle changes also play a critical role in health outcomes. "It's not just about getting screened. It's about taking care of your body every day," Knowles added. "I've made significant lifestyle changes, from losing weight to making exercise a daily habit. I want to live, and I'm doing everything I can to make sure that happens."
One of the major challenges in addressing prostate cancer in high-risk communities is building trust. Historically, healthcare providers and public health campaigns have had limited success in reaching these populations, particularly when it comes to issues like prostate cancer that are seen as taboo.
"We need to be authentic in our approach," Bugler explained. "We're working with local partners who already have the trust of their communities. By partnering with grassroots organizations, we can ensure that the message about prostate cancer awareness and early detection is heard loud and clear."
Knowles also emphasized the importance of engaging with the Black community on a personal level. 'We want to speak directly to people, not just lecture them from the outside. We need to go into neighborhoods, into churches, into the places where Black men gather and talk to them about prostate cancer in a way that resonates with their lives.'
As our conversation concluded, both Knowles and Bugler made a heartfelt call to action. "I want men to take control of their health," Knowles urged. "You have the power to make a difference in your life. Get checked, know your family history and take the necessary steps to protect your health."
Bugler echoed this sentiment: "We want everyone to understand that prostate cancer is preventable, and when caught early, it's treatable. But we need everyone to get involved—whether you're a man at risk or someone who loves and cares for them."
If you want to support the fight against prostate cancer or get involved in the Blitz the Barriers initiative, you can visit ZeroProstateCancer.org to learn more about ways to volunteer, donate, or partner with the organization. You can also follow Matthew Knowles' efforts and schedule him for speaking engagements at MatthewKnowles.com.
By raising awareness, breaking down cultural stigmas, and promoting early detection, we can make significant strides in reducing the impact of prostate cancer on Black men. As Matthew Knowles said, "It's time to take control of our health. Together, we can save lives."
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