4247.0: Tuesday, November 14, 2000 - 5:30 PM

Abstract #16298

Primary care physician attitudes toward prostate cancer screening for African American men

Sonjia Little, MPH, University of South Florida, 9428 Pebble Glen Avenue, Tampa, FL 33647, 813-973-2092, slittle@hsc.usf.edu and Melinda S. Forthofer, PhD, Department of Community and Family Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, FL 33612-3805, 813-974-6681, mforthof@hsc.usf.edu.

African American men have a greater incidence of and a higher mortality rate for prostate cancer than white men, yet they are less likely to participate in prostate cancer screening. Previous studies have attempted to determine the extent to which racial disparities in prostate cancer outcomes are attributable to physiologic differences, knowledge, attitudes and practices. However, research on the prostate cancer screening practices of primary care providers has been insufficient

To determine the prostate cancer screening benefits and barriers experienced by health care professionals, primary care physicians and nurse practitioners were interviewed regarding their attitudes, perceptions, practices and knowledge about prostate cancer screening and its efficacy. Key findings revealed the important role Medicare plays in secondary prevention; characteristics of patients most likely and least likely to be screened, and the importance of social networks.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants in the session will be able to: 1. Explain and describe the role Medicare has in acting as a barrier to prostate cancer screening. 2. Identify barriers and benefits that primary care practitioners face in providing prostate cancer screening in African American male patients. 3. Identify and discuss the general perceptions, practices, attitudes and beliefs primary care practitioners have regarding prostate cancer screening of African American male patients. 4. Discuss the importance patient education plays in improving prostate cancer screening outcomes. 5. Identify and discuss practitioner's perceptions of professional attributes that positively contribute to an African American male's decision to be screened

Keywords: Cancer Screening, Primary Care

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA