In this powerful episode of Genetics for Healthcare, host Rome Madison sits down with filmmaker and health advocate Landi Maduro to discuss her eye-opening documentary, The Silent Killer: Prostate Cancer in the African-American Community. Landi shares her personal journey—from initially resisting the project to becoming a passionate advocate after her own father was diagnosed with prostate cancer during filming.
The conversation dives into the alarming disparities Black men face, including higher risks, later diagnoses, and systemic barriers in healthcare. Landi reveals shocking truths uncovered during production, like how 30% of men don’t even know where their prostate is—and why cultural stigma around masculinity and medical distrust keeps them from seeking care.
Key takeaways include:
- The power of advocacy: Why you can’t rely solely on doctors—demand screenings, ask questions, and know your family history.
- Genetic risks: How Landi’s discovery of her father’s Lynch syndrome changed her family’s approach to cancer prevention.
- Breaking the silence: Stories from survivors (including hip-hop pioneer Lonzo) on overcoming shame and the lifesaving role of community support.
- What’s next: Landi’s upcoming documentary, The Ties That Bind, exploring how prostate, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers devastate Black families.
Packed with raw stories, practical advice, and a call to action, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves a man—and wants to keep him healthy.
Where to Watch & Learn More:
- The Silent Killer is streaming on Tubi.
- Follow Landi’s work at landimaduro.com and support her next film.
