Community-based peer navigator training and education tool for prostate cancer prevention decision-making in Black men

Background: Black men are diagnosed and die at higher rates from prostate cancer than other men. In U.S, the mortality rate for Black men is 258.3 per 100,000. Death rates are linked to advanced stages at diagnosis. Research indicates that Black males are not knowledgeable about prostate cancer and prevention. The goal of our project was to develop and pilot-test a community-based Peer Navigator training and education curriculum to train Black men in prostate cancer decision-making.

Methods: Comprehensive literature review and content analysis were conducted on community-based decision-making aids for prostate cancer prevention in Black men. Additionally qualitative and quantitative data from 276 Black San Bernardino County, California men identified pertinent issues on the topic. The resulting curriculum was pilot tested for content, delivery methods, setting and administration format.

Results: Four best practice approaches developed by the following groups were identified and informed the creation of our curriculum: a medical professional group, CDC, a university, and a non-profit organization. Comparative analysis identified six cross-cutting topics which were subsequently included in our curriculum: communication skills, education, didactic tools, shared decision-making, prevention and screening. We will present pilot results regarding cultural fit, early effectiveness, delivery method and setting.

Discussion: We believe that a culturally specific community-based curriculum developed in partnership with Black men will be effective in reaching and encouraging Black men to become more involved in decision-making about their prostate health. We will discuss most effective modalities to engage Black men regarding this pressing issue, and recommend health system policy changes.