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James Pickens Jr. Reveals Prostate Cancer Diagnosis, Uses Grey's Anatomy Spotlight to Urge Early Screening

He says routine PSA checks flagged a problem early, prompting robotic surgery.

Overview

  • The longtime Grey's Anatomy actor disclosed his diagnosis as ABC aired a midseason episode where his character reveals having cancer.
  • Elevated PSA results earlier this year led to an MRI and biopsy that found a tumor, with scans showing the cancer had not spread.
  • He chose a robotic radical prostatectomy and was discharged after a brief hospital stay.
  • Pickens described his case as a rare variant and said doctors plan cautious monitoring following surgery.
  • He partnered with Black Health Matters on a PSA urging early screening, especially for Black men and those with a family history, with discussions starting around age 40.