It came as a shock to acclaimed actor Danny John Jules, known for his roles in shows like Red Dwarf and Death in Paradise, to learn about the disproportionate impact of prostate cancer on Black men. Before partnering with the “Stronger Knowing More” campaign by Prostate Cancer UK, Jules was unaware of the stark statistic: 1 in 4 Black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in the UK, compared to 1 in 8 men in the general population.
Jules’ journey into prostate cancer advocacy began with fellow “Stronger Knowing More” ambassador, the renowned poet Benjamin Zephaniah. Zephaniah, a Rastafarian, openly discussed prostate cancer, a topic often stigmatized within the Black community. His public voice played a crucial role in breaking down barriers and initiating conversations within mainstream media and directly reaching Black audiences.
However, it was at the launch event for the “Stronger Knowing More” campaign that the reality of the issue truly resonated with Danny John Jules. Hearing a prostate cancer survivor share his personal story had a profound impact. Jules recalls the palpable silence in the room, a “rude awakening” for everyone present, highlighting the low awareness of this disease within Black communities, despite the high rates of successful treatment when detected early.
Driven by this newfound understanding, Danny John Jules embraced unconventional methods to amplify prostate cancer awareness. His participation in ITV’s The Real Full Monty, which involved stripping and dancing on live television, became a powerful platform to reach a wider audience. Jules joined the show because of his commitment to Prostate Cancer UK’s mission. The impact was immediate and significant; the Prostate Cancer UK website experienced a surge in traffic, even crashing due to the overwhelming public interest sparked by the show. The program’s nomination for a TV Bafta further elevated the cause, and it was during the awards ceremony, while dancing on the red carpet with Wayne Sleep, that Jules’ path crossed with a producer from Strictly Come Dancing, further extending his reach into mainstream entertainment.
Jules’ commitment extended beyond television screens. Teaming up with his friend Steve Keys, a fellow motorbike enthusiast, he embarked on a journey through the Caribbean for their show Two Wheels One Love. Despite his extensive filming experience in the Caribbean for Death in Paradise, and his parents hailing from Dominica, Jules had never explored the region on two wheels. This motorbike adventure provided a unique opportunity to connect with men in Guadeloupe and Dominica, engaging in conversations about prostate cancer. Through these personal interactions, Jules discovered that many men had either been diagnosed with the disease or knew someone who had. Even within the Death in Paradise production team, a French-speaking producer revealed his own prostate cancer diagnosis, highlighting the pervasive nature of the disease.
Reflecting on the broader UK landscape, Danny John Jules emphasizes the vital role of public figures in raising awareness. He points to the example of Bill Turnbull, a well-known television personality, whose open discussion about his prostate cancer diagnosis prompted many men to pay attention. Jules notes that familiar faces like Turnbull, who feel like “family members” to viewers, can cut through the noise and encourage men to confront the issue and break the silence surrounding men’s health.
Danny John Jules underscores that continued awareness campaigns and fundraising efforts are crucial for future generations. He emphasizes that by acting now, we are providing “our sons and grandsons a fighting chance” through advancements in diagnostic tools and treatments. His own 12-year-old son is already aware of prostate cancer, not through formal lectures, but through open and natural conversations within their everyday life, illustrating the importance of normalizing discussions around men’s health within families.
For Black men over 45, particularly those with a family history of prostate cancer, Danny John Jules offers direct and actionable advice. He stresses the simplicity and accessibility of the PSA blood test. He clarifies that for most men, the process begins and often ends with this straightforward blood test, unless further investigation is warranted. Therefore, his message is clear: “go and speak to your GP about whether the PSA blood test is right for you.” Early detection remains the most powerful tool in combating prostate cancer, and Danny John Jules continues to be a passionate advocate for empowering Black men with knowledge and encouraging proactive steps towards their health.
