The recent passing of legendary soul artist D’Angelo at just 51 from pancreatic cancer has reignited an urgent conversation about the gastrointestinal (GI) health crisis affecting Black men. His death follows the losses of prominent figures like Richard Roundtree, who died of pancreatic cancer at 81, and Chadwick Boseman, who passed away from colon cancer in 2020 at only 43.
Though cancer does not discriminate, Black men face disproportionately higher risks for gastrointestinal cancers, including those of the stomach, liver, pancreas, colon, gall bladder, and esophagus. Often, these diseases begin quietly, with subtle symptoms that are easy to ignore — until it’s too late.
To shed light on prevention, Dr. Ed McDonald, gastroenterologist and Director of Adult Clinical Nutrition at the University of Chicago, shared with The Root six vital steps Black men can take now to protect their digestive health.
1. Know Your Family History
Many gastrointestinal cancers — particularly pancreatic and colon cancers — have strong genetic components. If a close relative has had one of these conditions, it’s essential to discuss it with your doctor early.
“The pancreas regulates blood sugar and produces enzymes for digestion,” Dr. McDonald explains. “When it isn’t functioning properly, warning signs can be subtle — such as yellowing of the skin or eyes.”
Understanding your family’s medical background gives you and your healthcare provider the chance to detect issues early, when treatment outcomes are far better.
2. Get Screened Early and Often
For most Black men, screening can be life-saving. Unfortunately, many are diagnosed late, when treatment options are limited.
Currently, there are no established national guidelines for when to begin pancreatic cancer screening, but awareness is key.
For colon cancer, Dr. McDonald recommends that anyone with a first-degree relative who had the disease start screening by age 40, or 10 years before their relative’s diagnosis. Colon cancer rates have doubled among adults under 55, making early testing especially urgent for younger men.
Proactive screening can detect precancerous growths before they turn deadly — a small step that can save lives.
3. Ditch the Cigars and Bourbon
For many, lighting a cigar and pouring a glass of bourbon after a long day feels like a well-earned ritual. However, Dr. McDonald cautions that this tradition may be doing far more harm than good.
“Pairing cigars with bourbon is exposing Black men to unnecessary carcinogens,” he said. “We gotta bond over things that don’t cause cancer.”
Both alcohol and tobacco increase the risk of cancers throughout the digestive tract — particularly the esophagus, pancreas, and liver. Cutting down or eliminating these habits altogether is one of the most effective steps you can take toward a longer, healthier life.
4. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle and Diet
Dr. McDonald emphasizes that true gut health is not about supplements or fads, but about sustainable lifestyle choices.
“When people talk about gut health, it is better to talk about a healthy lifestyle,” he explained.
That means:
Eat more fruits and vegetables — fiber promotes healthy digestion and reduces cancer risk.
Reduce red and processed meat, which are linked to colon cancer.
Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight, as obesity significantly increases the risk of gastrointestinal cancers.
A balanced diet and active lifestyle not only improve digestion but also strengthen the immune system and overall well-being.
5. Recognize the Warning Signs and Risk Factors
Bloating, fatigue, or mild abdominal discomfort are easy to dismiss, but persistent or painful symptoms deserve attention.
“If you notice blood in your stool, consult your doctor immediately,” Dr. McDonald warns. “It could be an early sign of something serious.”
He also advises avoiding foods and habits that worsen bloating, such as:
- Excess dairy or carbonated drinks
- Artificial sweeteners and gum
Certain medications can also disrupt gut function. NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) may irritate the stomach lining, while opioids can cause severe constipation. Monitoring medication use and discussing alternatives with your doctor can help prevent complications.
6. Follow the “3-by-3” Rule
Dr. McDonald offers a simple guideline for understanding bowel health:
“It’s normal to have anywhere from three bowel movements per day to three per week.”
If your bowel habits consistently fall outside that range — or if you experience significant changes in stool color, consistency, or frequency — it’s time to talk with a gastroenterologist.
Changes in bowel habits are often among the first signs of gastrointestinal disorders, including cancer.
Conclusion
The deaths of D’Angelo, Chadwick Boseman, and Richard Roundtree are painful reminders that gut health is not optional — it’s essential. For Black men, in particular, early action can make the difference between life and death.
Dr. McDonald’s advice underscores a crucial message: Know your risks, get screened, live healthy, and pay attention to your body.
By taking these proactive steps, Black men can rewrite a troubling health narrative and protect future generations from the same fate.
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