Best Practices For Men Only

The National Black Leadership Initiative on Cancer II: Network Project (NBLIC II) and Southwest Oncology Group  (SWOG) want to help break the cycle by sponsoring “FOR MEN ONLY” (FMO) retreats.  These multi-generational holistic type programs will provide screenings and information on hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, nutrition, and prostate health.   In a 1998 Lancet study “Risk of Death for Black Men” investigators found that the death rate for black men was nine percent higher for cardiovascular disease, 25 percent higher for cancer and 26 percent higher non-cancer deaths.   Sandra J. Hamilton, RN, FNP, MEd, Health Communications Specialist for the NBLIC II states, “Although our primary focus is prostate cancer, we would be remiss in not using this occasion to address those areas of comobidity which are prevalent in African American males. It is important to start young black males off with good health habits while improving the health practices of their fathers and grandfathers.”   

The FMO retreats will feature physicians who will share helpful information on many health issues that cause concern for black men, followed by a question and answer session. Videos, information booths and lots of goodies will enhance the discussion.   Males 50 and older will be an opportunity to learn about the first national prostate cancer prevention study – Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial (SELECT).  Selenium and vitamin E, both naturally occurring nutrients, are antioxidants.  They are capable of neutralizing toxins known as “free radicals” that might otherwise damage the genetic material of cells and possibly lead to cancer.  These nutrients were chosen for study because of the results of two other large cancer prevention trials.

“It is crucial that men of all races and ethnic backgrounds participate in SELECT,” said Leslie Ford, M.D., associate director for clinical research in the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) Division of Cancer Prevention.  “And since African American men have the highest incidence of prostate cancer in the world, we especially encourage them to consider joining the trial.” 

“This study is important for the men who join, not only because they might prevent prostate cancer for themselves, but also because what we learn has the potential to benefit future generations of men,” said Charles A. Coltman, Jr, M.D., chairman of SWOG.