Dexter King 3-year battle prostate cancer reminder get screened early

Dexter King, youngest son of MLK, battles prostate cancer. Early detection is key. Family history can increase odds of diagnosis.

Dexter King, the youngest son of Coretta Scott and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., has been fighting prostate cancer for three-and-a-half years. The King family did not provide specific details about his treatment, but they did say that he put up a "valiant" battle.

Dr. John Stewart from the Morehouse School of Medicine emphasizes that the best way to combat prostate cancer is through early detection. The American Cancer Society recommends that men begin annual screenings for the disease at 45 years old, and for Black men, who are more susceptible, at 40 years old.

"It's a quick exam that could save your life," Dr. Stewart emphasizes.

Family history of prostate cancer can increase the likelihood of diagnosis. Many men do not discuss their medical history, which Dr. Stewart believes should become less taboo.

"This is why prostate cancer is so lethal. It often doesn't cause symptoms in advanced stages, and the cancer could grow without the man ever knowing it due to minimal symptoms," he explains.

There are now more treatment options than ever, including minimally invasive surgery and a watch-and-wait approach. Radiation therapy is also recommended by some doctors.

Dr. Stewart also notes that there appears to be a correlation between high-fat diets and the presence of prostate cancer.

The primary focus remains on early detection, as doctors emphasize that prostate cancer is treatable and beatable with early intervention.