A few years ago, Al Roker, the beloved morning television show host, made a surprise announcement in which he revealed his prostate cancer diagnosis. While he has since been declared cancer-free, his 17 month journey was not something he took lightly, and it was not without warning to his viewers.
Al Roker’s Cancer Journey
Al Roker’s cancer journey began in 2018, when he went to his doctor for a routine checkup. Following the checkup, he was informed that he had an elevated prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, level, which warranted further testing. After further analysis of his PSA level, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
In September of 2020, Al Roker underwent a radical prostatectomy, a type of surgery which removed the prostate gland and surrounding tissue from his body. After the surgery, he remained cancer-free.
Al Roker’s Warning to Everyone
During his fight with cancer, Al Roker took to social media, his own show and other network shows to spread a message to everyone about the importance of getting checked for prostate cancer and the benefits of early detection.
Al Roker’s Warning #1 – Have Your PSA Level Tested
Al Roker was informed of his prostate cancer early on because he had his PSA level tested. The PSA blood test measures a protein in the blood which can indicate prostate cancer, but also other diseases and conditions. Knowing one’s PSA level is a crucial step in catching prostate cancer early on.
Al Roker’s Warning #2 – Get Checked After Age 50
In the US, most doctors recommend that men aged 50 and older should have a prostate-specific antigen test. Al Roker encourages men of this age to speak to their doctors about prostate cancer and getting tested, especially if they are at a higher risk of prostate cancer due to family history or lifestyle choices.
Al Roker’s Warning #3 – Don’t Ignore Prostate Cancer Symptoms
Al Roker empathizes to those out there who may be experiencing symptoms that could be related to prostate cancer. He encourages men of all ages to get checked for prostate cancer if they are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
• Difficulty starting or stopping the stream of urine
• Weak or interrupted flow of urine
• Pain or burning during urination
• Blood in the urine
• Difficulty getting an erection
• Pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis
Al Roker’s Warning to Early Detection
It is no secret that early detection is key in treating prostate cancer. Therefore, if any signs or symptoms of prostate cancer are experienced, it is crucial to seek medical attention right away and get tested.
Get Involved with the Prostate Cancer Foundation
In honor of his experience, Al Roker launched the Al Roker Prostate Cancer Foundation in October of 2019. This foundation aims to bring awareness to prostate cancer and to raise as much as possible to help men and their families affected by prostate cancer.
Furthermore, a portion of the proceeds of his book, You Look So Much Better in Person, will also be donated to the foundation to fund research, treatment and services for those affected.
Al Roker’s Proud Moment
In December of 2020, Al Roker was declared to be in complete remission from cancer. He took this opportunity to remind everyone just how important it is to practice preventive health measures, such as getting regular checkups and screenings, in order to detect cancer in its early stages.
The cancer diagnosis of Al Roker surprised many, but his warnings and advice to everyone since remain on the same sage topic: get regularly checked, especially after age 50. Al Roker proved that with early detection, prostate cancer can be treated and beaten. It’s clear that Al Roker isn’t going to take his health for granted any time soon, and nor should anyone else.
