Mississippi Doctor Urges Black Men to Get Cancer Screenings

Colon and prostate cancer are often preventable if detected early, says physician.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Dr. Michael Bookhardt, a Mississippi doctor, is urging Black men to take their health more seriously and get regular cancer screenings. He cites the recent death of actor James Van Der Beek from colon cancer at age 48 as a tragic reminder that many cancers are preventable if caught early through simple, painless tests. Bookhardt says stigma and fear keep many Black men from getting screened, but modern tests like the PSA blood test for prostate cancer are quick and easy.

Why it matters

Black men have higher rates of certain cancers like prostate and colon cancer compared to other demographics. Early detection through regular screenings can significantly improve outcomes, but many Black men avoid getting tested due to cultural stigmas and misconceptions about the process. Raising awareness and encouraging Black men to prioritize their health is crucial to addressing these disparities.

The details

According to Dr. Bookhardt, modern cancer screenings for Black men are simple and painless. For prostate cancer, a PSA blood test can detect abnormalities that may require further testing, without the need for a digital rectal exam. Similarly, colon cancer screenings have become more comfortable in recent years. Bookhardt urges Black men to find a primary care provider and make an appointment to get screened, as early detection is key to preventing and treating these diseases.

  • Recently, actor James Van Der Beek died from colon cancer at age 48.

The players

Dr. Michael Bookhardt

A Mississippi doctor who is urging Black men to get regular cancer screenings.

James Van Der Beek

An actor who recently died from colon cancer at the age of 48.

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What they’re saying

“That's my message for African-American men. We need to go. We need to stop using excuses.”

— Dr. Michael Bookhardt, Doctor (WJTV)

“What we do is a simple blood test called PSA, prostate specific antigen. If it's normal, it will stop there, and then we'll just see in a year. If it's abnormal, then we do a further testing and possibly refer you to a urologist. But either way, it is absolutely painless. There's no need for a digital rectal exam.”

— Dr. Michael Bookhardt, Doctor (WJTV)

The takeaway

This story highlights the importance of Black men prioritizing their health and getting regular cancer screenings, which can help detect and prevent deadly diseases like colon and prostate cancer. By overcoming stigma and misconceptions, Black men can take proactive steps to improve their health outcomes.