Factors influencing prostate cancer screening decisions among African American men

Purpose: Due to controversy regarding prostate cancer screening, it is imperative that African American men make informed decisions. Little is known about the role of cultural factors in decision-making for prostate cancer screening among African American men. The purposes of this study were: 1) to investigate components involved with decision-making for prostate cancer screening among African American men; and 2) to identify cultural factors that may influence screening decisions. Methods: Six focus group sessions were conducted consisting of African American men between the ages of 40 and 70. Results: Eight themes emerged from the discussions about prostate cancer screening. These themes were: 1) men's knowledge of prostate cancer and clinical services; 2) prostate cancer as a threat to manhood; 3) screening as a threat to manhood; 4) self-awareness of health and well-being; 5) value of screening; 6) convenience of prostate specific antigen (PSA) screening; 7) misunderstanding of screening controversy; 8) distrust of the medical community; and 9) shared decision-making. Conclusion: This study identifies cultural factors involved with decision-making for prostate cancer screening among African American men.