A comparative study of prostate screening health beliefs and practices between African American and Caucasian men

This descriptive comparative study investigated the prostate screening health beliefs and practices of men over the age of 45. A self-administered questionnaire was used prior to an informational session, which also included a question and answer period, as needed, and handout materials donated by the American Cancer Society on risk factors, screening tests and early detection of prostate cancer. The study results showed that there were no significant differences between African American and Caucasian men on age, self-reported health status and the utilization of a private physician for their health care. Both groups had similar history of blood relatives with cancer, and concern about development of illness. More Caucasian men had the digital rectal exam (DRE) done while African American males had the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) done more often; however, 26% of the entire sample indicated they had never had the screening test done. Group comparisons revealed a significant difference between the groups on the belief that faith contributes to health which was greater for the African Americans, while the Caucasian men had a greater belief that they were likely to develop prostate cancer. Results of this study indicate that there are still a significant number of men reporting never having had a PSA test done even though 75% knew that the test is recommended for early detection of prostate cancer. Continued efforts to educate and increase screening are still needed among both African American and Caucasian men.