The impact of prostate cancer knowledge on cancer screening.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To test the effect of knowledge on participation in prostate cancer screening.

DESIGN

Quasi-experimental design; PRECEDE framework.

SAMPLE

319 men, 82% African American.

METHODS

Prostate cancer knowledge was measured with a Prostate Cancer Knowledge Questionnaire prior to a community-based educational program. Men were referred to their personal physicians for a free prostate cancer screening. Results were sent to the Prostate Cancer Project.

MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES

Prostate cancer knowledge and participation in free prostate screening with a digital rectal examination and prostate specific antigen.

FINDINGS

Prostate cancer knowledge was a predictor in participation in screening (p = 0.05).

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Nurses need to target educational interventions for African American men, who have the highest incidence of and mortality rates for prostate cancer, to significantly reduce mortality rates. This study documented the importance of providing educational programs to increase participation in prostate cancer screening.