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James Pickens Jr. Says He Is Cancer-Free After Prostate Cancer Surgery

The Grey's Anatomy actor used a parallel on-screen storyline to promote early screening with Black Health Matters.

Overview

  • Pickens wrote on Instagram on Nov. 15 that he is “blessed and grateful to be cancer-free” following treatment earlier this year.
  • An elevated PSA in January prompted an MRI and biopsy that found a prostate tumor, and PET imaging indicated the cancer was confined to the prostate.
  • He underwent a robotic radical prostatectomy performed by two urologists after doctors advised surgery for his case.
  • Pickens said his tumor was a rare variant detected unusually early, which led his care team to proceed cautiously.
  • He released a PSA with Black Health Matters urging early screening, advising Black men or those with a family history to talk to their doctors about starting at age 40, as his TV character’s recent cancer reveal drew attention to the issue.