Cues to participation in prostate cancer screening: a theory for practice

To develop and test the Cues to Participation in Prostate Cancer Screening Theory, which proposes that exposure to information from certain sources cues or triggers screening.

Descriptive correlational.

11 counties of a southeastern state.

Convenience sample of 1,867 men at risk for prostate cancer (72% African American; 28% Caucasian).

Recent exposure to prostate cancer information was measured. Men were offered free screening by prostate specific antigen (PSA) and digital rectal exam (DRE).

Demographic variables (race, age, education, income, and marital status), exposure (electronic media, print media, healthcare provider recommendation, and interpersonal interactions), and screening as measured by PSA and DRE.

Several major propositions of the Cues to Participation Theory were supported. General exposure to prostate cancer information significantly predicted screening participation. Hearing about prostate cancer from a healthcare provider was the best predictor of screening.

Men's demographic characteristics should be considered when providing information about prostate cancer. Hearing about prostate cancer from family and friends was not significantly related to screening behavior.

The importance of recommendations for prostate cancer screening is underscored.