Black Cosmopolitans, Montell Jordan has transformed his private health battle into a critical, urgent push for medical equity and preventative care in the Black community. Featured in an April 2026 ESSENCE profile, the ‘This Is How We Do It’ singer opened up about his prostate cancer recurrence and his new role as a ZERO Global Ambassador.
Prostate cancer disproportionately devastates Black men, who face significantly higher diagnosis and mortality rates compared to other racial groups. Jordan’s vulnerability shines a much-needed spotlight on this urgent health crisis impacting our community.
After first being diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2022, Jordan underwent treatment and was declared cancer-free. But in 2025, the disease returned, sending the R&B legend into a tailspin. “It was absolutely devastating,” Jordan shared. “I thought I had beaten this, and now I’m right back in the fight.”
Rather than retreating from the spotlight, Jordan decided to use his platform to raise awareness and drive action. He partnered with the ZERO – The End of Prostate Cancer organization as a Global Ambassador, committing his time and voice to their lifesaving mission.
“So many Black men avoid getting screened or talking about their health challenges,” said Jordan. “We have to change that. I’m going to be as loud and vulnerable as I can be, because I know my story could save lives.”
Through this new partnership, Jordan is focusing on three key priorities: promoting early detection, improving access to quality care, and dismantling the cultural stigmas that prevent Black men from prioritizing their health. He’s sharing his own cancer journey, encouraging routine screenings, and fighting for greater funding and resources in underserved communities.
“This is about more than me,” Jordan emphasized. “Prostate cancer has devastated far too many Black families. I’m doing this for my brothers, my sons, and every Black man who deserves a fair shot at a healthy life.”
Black Cosmopolitans, Montell Jordan’s powerful advocacy comes at a critical moment. As we continue to grapple with stark racial disparities in healthcare access and outcomes, his voice and platform could truly make the difference between life and death for countless Black men. Let’s rally behind him and this vital cause.
