CLEVELAND -- African-American men die from prostate cancer at more than twice the rate of white men.

NewsChannel5 reported that one local firefighter knows the importance of getting screened, because it saved his life.

Before settling into the job of dispatcher, firefighter Dale Woodard spent 24 years on the front lines.

But 12 months ago, the honored veteran went back into the heat of battle for the fight of his life against prostate cancer.

"When he told me that it looked like I tested positive for cancer, I really didn't feel anything at that moment," Woodard said. "I was like numb."

Woodard's wife, Carolyn, did her best to hide her tears.

"He's always been there as my strength, and I knew it was my time to be his," she said.

In many men, prostate cancer does not cause symptoms. That's why it's very important for all men age 50 and over to have an annual screening. And because African-American men face an increased risk of the disease, they should get screened earlier.

A digital rectal exam allows doctors to feel for lumps on the prostate through the wall of the rectum.

Experts said that the minor discomfort of a rectal exam is well worth it.

"I'd rather have the test done -- it takes about 5 or 6 seconds -- than learn that I could have prevented a serious condition like prostate cancer down the road," said Dr. Saiid Ibrahim of University Hospitals.

Another screening tool is the PSA blood test, which measures the amount of a certain protein produced by prostate cancer cells. Anything above 4 is considered abnormal.

Because Woodard had regular screenings, his cancer was caught while it was still at a treatable stage.

He underwent treatment that involves implanting tiny seeds of radiation into the prostate. The radiation destroys the ability of cancer cells to reproduce.

Other treatments for prostate cancer include radiation that comes from a machine or surgery to remove the prostate.

Woodard also takes pills that keep cancer from growing by decreasing male hormone levels. He also has regular blood tests that will tell him if the cancer is coming back.

He wants other men to know the importance of screening.

"Get that examination; suffer the discomfort," he said. "It doesn't last long; you'll get over it."

If you have any questions about cancer or would like a referral for cancer screening, visit the Ireland Cancer Center Web site or call (800) 308-4248 to reach the 24-hour SBC -- Ameritech Urban Cancer hotline.