Introduction: An estimated 187,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2008. While there is controversy surrounding the role screening has in preventing prostate cancer, the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exam (DRE) have been useful in diagnosing the disease. Regardless of the tests success, certain populations of men are not utilizing screening services. As a result, this comparative study analyzed opinions regarding prostate cancer screening among Black and White men.

Methods: Preliminary results from a study of 180 men, Black (n=90) and White (n=90), 40 years of age and older residing in two metropolitan areas: Tuscaloosa and Jefferson County were statistically analyzed. Participant opinions were used to develop tools and methods to study the use, impact, and cost effectiveness of prostate cancer screening. A quantitative crosssectional research design was used with both closed and open-ended questions regarding prostate cancer knowledge, attitudes, and screening behaviors. SPSS was used to generate descriptive statistics to assess trends.

Results: The mean age of all participants was 64.41 years (range 43–92 years). There was a statistically significant difference in marital status (p=.001) and employment (p=.022). Income for Whites was significantly higher than blacks (p=.001). Most Blacks combined household income for two people was $10,001–20,000. After controlling for race, we found that 30% of Blacks were high school graduates or had completed a high school equivalency exam (GED). Most Whites either completed some college or technical school training or were college graduates. The majority of participants perceived men of their own ethnic group to be more likely to develop prostate cancer when compared to another group.

Conclusion: Black men perceive the prevalence of prostate cancer to be associated with negative beliefs and practices; however they are not utilizing available screening services. While quantitative findings from our study alone cannot be generalized, we believe education level and marital status may be mediating use of screening in both study groups. Health beliefs may not be the most significant factor influencing screening practices; therefore more research should explore the impact interpersonal relationships have on screening practices and health outcomes in certain populations.

Second AACR International Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities— Feb 3–6, 2009; Carefree, AZ

American Association for Cancer Research
2009