Simone Ledward Boseman, the widow of Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman, is urging young individuals to recognize the serious threat that colon cancer poses, having witnessed its devastating impact on her husband’s life. Chadwick succumbed to the illness in 2020, four years after being diagnosed.
Chadwick Boseman, known for his role as King T’Challa in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, also portrayed iconic figures such as James Brown in “Get On Up” (2014) and Levee Green in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” (2020). The latter was released after his passing, earning him a posthumous Oscar nomination.
Speaking at Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month last year, Simone highlighted the increasing risk for those under 50, with projections indicating a more than 140 percent rise in colon cancer cases within this age group by 2030.
According to MailOnline, colon cancer has been diagnosed in individuals as young as 21. However, if detected early, the survival rates are quite high.
The American Cancer Society reports that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths among American men under 50, and it ranks second for women in the same age group. The reasons for this alarming trend, with a two percent annual increase, remain unclear.
During her talk at Dana-Farber, Simone emphasized, “Colorectal cancer is killing young people across the country, and most are vastly underestimating their risk. I’ve seen how this disease moves, and I know now how treatable it is when it’s detected early.”
“My personal advocacy stems from this understanding, and from the disappointment I feel in the lack of awareness in my community. We who have this knowledge have an obligation to inform our fellow man. Spreading awareness will save lives,” she added.
Kimmie Ng, director of the Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Center at Dana-Farber and associate chief of the Division of Gastrointestinal Oncology, further explained, “The alarming rise in young-onset colorectal cancer underscores the urgent need for heightened awareness, early detection, and comprehensive research to understand the underlying causes and develop effective prevention and treatment strategies.”
She stressed that “The rise in early-onset colorectal cancer is alarming. We need more awareness, earlier detection, and better understanding of the causes behind this trend.”
Kimmie praised Simone’s efforts, noting, “Her openness and commitment to spreading awareness is a powerful tribute to Chadwick’s legacy and a vital contribution to the fight against this disease.”
Following Chadwick’s passing in his Los Angeles home, surrounded by loved ones, tributes poured in from the entertainment industry. Director Jordan Peele, known for films like “Nope,” “Us,” and “Get Out,” described the loss as a ‘crushing blow’.
Chadwick’s family released a statement saying, “A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much. From Marshall to Da 5 Bloods, August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom and several more – all were filmed during and between countless surgeries and chemotherapy. It was the honour of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther.”
If you are affected by these issues and need confidential support, you can reach out to the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or use their live chat feature, available 24/7 all year round.