Black men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer are significantly less likely than white men to receive confirmatory testing within the first year—a critical step in ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that Black men had a 6.1 percent lower rate of completing these tests, with an adjusted odds ratio of 0.75 compared to white men.
Confirmatory testing helps determine whether active surveillance is appropriate or if more aggressive treatment is needed. Without it, patients may miss the opportunity for timely intervention or, conversely, undergo unnecessary procedures. The lack of testing raises concerns about the quality of care Black men receive and whether systemic barriers are influencing clinical decisions.
The study also revealed that Black men were less likely to be overtreated than white men, particularly among those considered unhealthy. While overtreatment can lead to complications and reduced quality of life, the lower rate among Black men may reflect disparities in access rather than better care.
“Our study highlights the importance of understanding the nuanced relationship between utilization and prostate cancer care quality when trying to improve care for underserved communities,” the authors wrote.
These findings underscore the urgent need to address racial gaps in cancer care. Ensuring that Black men receive appropriate diagnostic follow-up is not just a matter of equity—it’s a matter of survival.
See: “Racial Differences Seen in Prostate Cancer Care Quality” (August 4, 2025)
