Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the United States. South Carolina leads the nation in deaths related to prostate cancer, especially among African American men. This presentation will describe a unique prostate cancer education and screening program that has its base in predominantly African American churches. The presenters will highlight the importance of utilizing existing credible community networks and resources to increase access for minority men to prostate cancer education and screening. The establishment of prostate cancer education and screening recruitment mini- grants by a local health organization resulted in approximately 925 men receiving a free prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test during the months of July, August and September 2000 in which nine prostate cancers were detected. Men with abnormal PSA results continue to be followed and linked with primary care providers for additional medical evaluations.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the this session, the participant will be able to: 1. Assess the capacity of a faith based community and health organizations to educate and recruit men for prostate cancer screening. 2. Develop an action plan for implementing a faith-based prostate cancer education and screening program in their community.
Keywords: Access and Services, Community-Based Health Promotion
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: South Carolina DHEC's Office of Minority Health and the Real Men Checkin' It Out Educational Guide.
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.