My uncle, who suffered from pancreatic cancer, said this to me one day and with everything going on right now, it quickly got brought back up to my mind: “Pancreatic cancer is one of the few cancers that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. For Black men, that silence can be deadly.”
That quote couldn’t be more true after the tragic, and seemingly sudden passing of the legendary soul singer, D’Angelo, at the young age of 51. He suffered from a secret battle with pancreatic cancer that many knew nothing about. His music will, of course, continue to live on well after his passing. But could his passing serve us as well–like a wake-up call or call-to-action for Black Men to take notice of this deadly disease?
A Growing Concern in the Black Community
Pancreatic cancer is often called the “silent killer” — and for good reason. It develops deep inside the body and rarely shows symptoms until it’s advanced. But what makes this disease especially dangerous is its impact on Black men, who face higher rates of diagnosis and death than any other racial group.
According to the American Cancer Society, Black men are 30–40% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer and more likely to die from it. Awareness, prevention, and early action are critical.
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Why Black Men Are at Higher Risk
Researchers are still working to understand why pancreatic cancer affects Black men more severely, but several key factors stand out:
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Genetic Links: Inherited mutations such as BRCA2, PALB2, and ATM can raise risk — and may be more common in African American families.
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Chronic Conditions: Diabetes, obesity, and pancreatitis are more prevalent among Black men and are known risk factors.
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Barriers to Care: Delayed diagnosis, limited access to advanced care, and socioeconomic disparities often lead to later-stage detection.
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Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol use, and diets high in processed foods also increase risk.
The truth of the matter is, early screening saves lives — especially for Black men with diabetes or a family history of cancer. So get screened and get screened early.
How Pancreatic Cancer Is Diagnosed
Because the pancreas is located deep in the abdomen, tumors are often missed until symptoms become serious. Signs to look out for include:
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Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
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Persistent abdominal or back pain
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Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
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Dark urine, pale stools, or digestive changes
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New-onset diabetes without a clear cause
If pancreatic cancer is suspected, doctors use:
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Imaging Tests — CT scans, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound.
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Blood Tests — Checking for tumor markers like CA19-9.
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Biopsy — Removing a tissue sample to confirm diagnosis.
What are Black Men’s Treatment Options?
Treatment depends on how advanced the cancer is when found. Common approaches include:
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Surgery: If caught early, a Whipple procedure or similar surgery can remove tumors.
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Chemotherapy & Radiation: Used before or after surgery to destroy cancer cells.
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Targeted or Immunotherapy: Advanced options that attack specific cancer cells with fewer side effects.
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Palliative Care: Focused on pain management and quality of life for advanced cases.
Black men diagnosed with pancreatic cancer live longer when treated at major cancer centers with multidisciplinary care.”
How to Prevent Pancreatic Cancer with Your Lifestyle
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent pancreatic cancer, the right choices can significantly lower risk:
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Quit Smoking: Smoking doubles your risk.
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Maintain a Healthy Weight: Abdominal fat fuels inflammation.
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Eat Smart: Choose fruits, vegetables, fish, whole grains, and limit red and processed meats.
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Stay Active: 30 minutes of movement a day makes a difference.
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Watch Your Blood Sugar: Diabetes control is essential.
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Know Your Family History: If pancreatic or breast cancer runs in your family, ask about genetic counseling and screening.
Natural Remedies and Supportive Nutrition
Natural and holistic approaches can complement — not replace — medical treatment. These options may help reduce inflammation and support recovery:
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Turmeric (Curcumin): Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
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Green Tea: May slow the growth of cancer cells.
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Ginger: Eases nausea and supports digestion.
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Cruciferous Vegetables: Kale, broccoli, and collards help the body detoxify.
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Vitamin D: Low levels are linked to higher pancreatic cancer risk — talk to your doctor about safe supplementation.
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Stress Reduction: Prayer, meditation, and yoga strengthen mental and immune resilience.
What Can Black Men Do Today to Take Action?
So now what? After you’ve gotten all this information, listened to some D’Angelo songs, and posted about him on your social media with a R.I.P. caption, what can you do to really make his life (and death) matter? Here are some options:
- Ask your doctor about your risk for pancreatic cancer.
- Get screened if you have a family history or chronic conditions.
- Share this article with a brother, father, or friend — it might save a life.
Pancreatic cancer often strikes quietly — but knowledge can save lives. For Black men, especially those over 45 or with diabetes or a family history of cancer, early conversations with your doctor are essential. Remember, my unfiltered uncle would probably say something like this if he was still alive, “Don’t wait for symptoms. Get informed, get screened, and take control of your health, my brother.”
