Governor Ivey Signs Proclamation Declaring September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in Alabama

In a formal ceremony held at the State Capitol, Governor Kay Ivey, joined by Alabama State Representatives Kenneth Paschal and Ed Oliver, signed a proclamation declaring September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in Alabama.

The announcement was made in partnership with the Medical Association of the State of Alabama and the Alabama Minority GOP. Prostate cancer ranks as the second most common cancer in men, and the leaders underscored the need for early detection, health education, and improved access to care.

Rep. Paschal (R-Pelham), who was instrumental in bringing the Medical Association and the Alabama Minority GOP into collaboration, expressed his commitment to the cause. “We are grateful to Governor Ivey, the Medical Association, the Alabama Minority GOP and all the advocates who continue to shine a light on this critical health issue,” Paschal said. “I began my own prostate cancer screenings about five years ago, inspired by a close friend who shared his own personal experience with the disease and the life-saving importance of early, proactive care. I'm committed to continuing this conversation and strengthening partnerships well beyond September. I encourage others … to join us in raising awareness, getting screened early and ultimately saving lives.”

Rep. Ed Oliver (R-Dadeville) also stressed the value of screening. “Early screening saves lives. Prostate cancer is treatable when caught early, and it's critical that we empower men with that knowledge,” he said. “Supporting efforts that raise awareness and encourage men to take charge of their health by getting screened is essential.”

Governor Ivey’s proclamation serves as a statewide call to action, urging men to schedule regular prostate cancer screenings. The document also highlights the heightened risks faced by African American men, who tend to be diagnosed more often and have poorer outcomes.

George Williams, State Chair of the Alabama Minority GOP, spoke to the initiative’s equity dimension. “Prostate cancer affects all men but disproportionately impacts minority communities, including the very families we seek to empower,” Williams said. “At Alabama Minority GOP, we're committed to fighting for the health and future of our communities. We proudly stand with Rep. Paschal to raise awareness and call for meaningful action.”

Rep. Jeremy Gray (D-Opelika) has pre-filed HB40 for the 2026 legislative session. The bill “would recognize that African American men and men who have a first degree relative who has had prostate cancer are at high risk for the disease. This bill would also require that coverage for screening of high-risk men and all older men be provided without deductibles, copayments, or other cost-sharing requirements.”

Dr. Elizabeth Lowenthal, medical oncologist with the Urology Centers of Alabama and a member of the State Medical Association, reiterated the importance of early detection. “By increasing awareness and encouraging regular screenings, we can save lives and improve outcomes for men across Alabama,” she said.

With the proclamation in place, health advocates and lawmakers alike hope to sustain momentum beyond September and make prostate health a year-round priority in Alabama.

The Governor’s Proclamation is below: