James Pickens Jr., who is well-known for playing Dr. Richard Webber on ABC’s hit show “Grey’s Anatomy,” is spreading the word about how important it is to find prostate cancer early. The actor, who is 71 years old, said in a recent Instagram video that early detection saved his life. He is living proof of how important it is to get health screenings on time.
Pickens worked with Black Health Matters to share his own health story, stressing the importance of getting checked out every year, especially since he has a family history of prostate cancer. His blood test in 2024 showed levels that were too high, which worried his primary care doctor and led him to see a urologist.
A biopsy confirmed the presence of a tumor, and subsequent imaging demonstrated that the cancer had not metastasized. He then had robotic surgery to take out part of his prostate. Doctors noted that they had found the cancer at an unusual early stage and that they were being very careful with his treatment.
Pickens’ real-life fight with prostate cancer was similar to a recent episode of “Grey’s Anatomy” in which his character also revealed that he had cancer. Fans can look forward to the show’s return in January, when this touching story will continue.
The American Cancer Society says that prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 men, and it hits Black men harder than other men. Pickens strongly supports cancer awareness and prevention, saying that finding cancer early is the most important thing for getting good treatment results.
