Improvement of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs of African American Men Toward Prostate Cancer Screening

Abstract

BackgroundProstate cancer (PCa) is a major public health concern among African American (A.A.) men. A.A. men have the highest PCa incidences nationally and internationally.ObjectiveThe goal of this pilot study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an evidence-based PCa awareness intervention designed to positively affect the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of A.A. men regarding PCa screening.MethodA quantitative pre/post survey research design was utilized. A convenience sample of 11 subjects were recruited. The intervention consisted of a pre-survey, video presentation, oral presentation, question and answer session, and post-survey. The Thomas Jefferson University Prostate Cancer Screening Survey was used as the survey instrument.ResultsThe findings revealed a strong positive correlation between age of participants and pre-test scores. As education level increased among the participants so did knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs.ConclusionsThe study's goal was met by increasing awareness and changing knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs in A.A. men regarding PCa screening.Implications for NursingNurses and healthcare providers should encourage discussions with A.A. men regarding advantages and disadvantages of PCa screening that embraces cultural awareness. PCa knowledge is important for shared decision-making with healthcare providers.