Does Perceived Racism Affect Prostate Cancer Screening Rates and Patient-Provider Shared Discussions Among Black and White Men?

BACKGROUND

While Black men face a significant cancer risk burden in the United States, confronting complex historical and social issues such as racism and discrimination undermines care. This study explored associations between perceived racism, prostate screening rates, and shared medical discussions.

METHODS

We performed data analysis of merged Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey data. Data were limited to Black and White men. We used propensity score analysis to assess the race-associated effects on outcomes.

RESULTS

Black men were less likely than White men to receive discussions of both prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening advantages χ2(4.54), p < .05 and disadvantages χ2(41.62), p < .001. The effects of perceived racism and its interaction with race were statistically non-significant for all PSA outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Compared with their White counterparts, Black men were significantly less likely to be advised of potential PSA screening advantages and harms. This inequity in health care delivery has implications concerning disease prevention and informed decision-making.