ABSTRACT
Prostate cancer is one of the most significant health problems facing African American men today. Decreased participation in prostate cancer screening by African American men is a serious problem, as decreased survival rates occur when the diagnosis of prostate cancer is delayed. This descriptive cross-sectional study focuses on identifying the relationship between perceived barriers and prostate cancer screening practices among African American men. Using the Health Belief Model (HBM) as a theoretical construct, current prostate cancer screening practices and perceived barriers to screening were examined in a sample of 52 African American men from men’s clubs, barber shops, and churches located throughout North Florida. Perceived Barriers were measured by the Perceived Barriers Scale and participation in prostate cancer screening was measured by having a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) and/or Prostate Specific Antigen Test (PSA). Barriers most associated with decreased participation in prostate cancer screening were “would be embarrassed”, “no way to get there”, and “didn’t know I needed one”. Demographic factors that were significant predictors for non-participation in prostate cancer screening were not having insurance or a primary care doctor and lack of knowledge. A greater understanding of perceived barriers to prostate cancer screening may provide health care professionals with the information they need to implement strategies to address these barriers. The intent is to increase prostate cancer screening in African American men and ultimately decrease the rate of mortality from prostate cancer. Results of this study may help healthcare professionals increase prostate cancer awareness, facilitate education and screening behaviors of African American men through early detection and intervention.
