Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #113152

Michael A. Sanchez, MPH, CHES, Cancer Prevention Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Avenue N, M3-B232, Seattle, WA 98109-1024, Alton Hart, MD, MPH, Division of Quality Health Care, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1200 East Broad Street, P.O. Box 980306, Richmond, VA 23298-0306, 804-828-6938, ahart@vcu.edu, Clarence Spigner, DrPH, MPH, Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Box 357660, Seattle, WA 98195, and D.J. Bowen, PhD, Cancer Prevention Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Research Center, 1100 Fairview Ave. N. MPE702, Seattle, WA 98109.

PURPOSE: African-American men bear a disproportionate burden of prostate cancer diagnosis and mortality. Due to the controversy that exists regarding the efficacy of prostate cancer screening, it is imperative that African-American men make informed decisions about early detection. Little is known about the attitudes of African-American men that might influence decision making for prostate cancer screening. The purpose of this study is to: 1) investigate the components involved in informed decision making 2) identify cultural factors influencing decisions about prostate cancer screening among African-American men.

METHODOLOGY: We are conducting focus groups consisting of African-American men in Seattle, aged 40 to 70. The discussions focus on the men's health, prostate caner knowledge, support for health decision making, and awareness of controversies specific to prostate cancer screening. The discussions are being audiotaped and reviewed to identify key domains.

RESULTS: Preliminary results indicate three dominant themes. First, participants described issues of vulnerability associated with prostate cancer screening as “a man thing,” including pride, virility, myths, and discomfort discussing personal health information with other men. Second, participants revealed financial concerns regarding prostate cancer screening and treatment if it affects their family. Third, mistrust issues with medical providers were commonly reported by the participants.

IMPLICATIONS: These findings provide new insights into the decision making process involved with prostate cancer screening among African-American men. This study suggests the need for tailored interventions designed to address concerns associated with decision making for prostate cancer screening in the African-American community.

Learning Objectives:

• Investigate the components involved in informed decision making.
• Identify cultural factors influencing decisions about prostate cancer screening among African-American men.

Keywords: African American, Cancer Screening

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.