Why Destigmatizing Prostate Cancer Is Critical for Black Men’s Health

With one in eight Canadian men diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, this disease has become a significant workplace reality. Every year, thousands of men face the dual challenge of managing cancer treatment while trying to maintain theirprofessional responsibilities. Yet many employers, HR professionals, and insurers remain unprepared to respondeffectively. Supporting employees through illness and recovery requires more than updated policies, it calls for a workplace culturegrounded in compassion, flexibility, and health awareness. Prostate cancer is no longer a rare exception; it’s part oftoday’s workforce landscape. So how can workplaces better understand and respond to the needs of employees livingwith the disease? By fostering open dialogue, personalized support, and a culture that truly values well-being. The side effects of prostate cancer treatment vary widely. Surgery can lead to urinary incontinence or sexualdysfunction. Radiation may cause fatigue and digestive issues. Hormone therapy often results in hot flashes, moodswings, and weight gain, while chemotherapy or radiopharmaceuticals can affect cognition, energy, and digestion. … Continued