ATLANTA — Beyoncé’s father, Mathew Knowles, shared details of his breast cancer journey. Now cancer-free, he's hoping to raise awareness about the importance of cancer screenings and early detection.
In 2019, Knowles first noticed a bloody discharge through his shirt from his nipples. He immediately sought medical attention. A mammogram and biopsy led to a diagnosis of stage 1A breast cancer.
"It's important to find any disease early," explained Knowles. "It was critical because, gratefully, I was diagnosed with stage one."
Breast cancer is mostly found in women, but men can get breast cancer too. About 1 out of every 100 breast cancers diagnosed in the United States is found in a man, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Knowles is now cancer-free and spends much of his time encouraging people to get screened. He's become a global ambassador for the genetic testing company 23andme.
"Genetic testing is key because it lets us know if we are predisposed for major types of disease," said Knowles. "Once you find out this information, then you get with your health provider and come up with a game plan."
He added that there is "nothing invasive" about the testing, and there's "really no reason not to do it."
Knowles told 11Alive that surviving cancer has also prompted a lifestyle change.
"I've lost 30 pounds. I walk two miles every other day. I eat healthier, but some days I just look out of the window and value the beauty of flowers, trees and the ocean," he said.
Watch his full interview below and on our streaming app, 11Alive+.