Prostate Cancer Communication: What do Providers and Men Really Think About the Current Dialogue?

Authors:

Seul Ki Choi (Presenter)
Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina

Jessica Seel, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina
Susan Steck, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina
Johnny Payne, UsTOO Greenville and Upstate Prostate Cancer Alliance
Douglas McCormick, Greenville Health System Cancer Institute
Courtney Schrock, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina
Daniela Friedman, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina

Public Health Statement: Provider-patient communication is critical when making prostate cancer (PrCA) screening decisions.

Purpose: To examine current dialogue about PrCA prevention and screening between primary care providers (PCPs) and African-American (AA) men.

Methods/Approach: An online survey with 46 PCPs was conducted to examine perceptions and practices regarding PrCA communication with AA patients. Fifty-six AA men participated in a prostate health education program and completed pre- and post-tests. A community forum with some of the PCP survey and education session participants (5 PCPs and 38 AA men) was held; satisfaction surveys were administered at the forum.

Results: PCPs’ perceptions about PrCA screening were varied and they followed different PrCA screening guidelines in practice. PCPs and AA men had different experiences with PrCA communication. More PCPs reported they had discussions about PrCA with AA patients; fewer men reported having these same experiences with their doctor. About 37.8% of PCPs reported they remain neutral about PSA testing during discussions with patients; however, only 10.7% of AA men reported that their doctor remained neutral. Education participants’ prostate health knowledge increased significantly after the session (p<0.001). The community forum provided an open dialogue about prostate health between AA community members and PCPs. AA community members reported high satisfaction with the education session and community forum.

Conclusions/Implications: Different recommendations from PCPs may hinder AA men’s PrCA screening decisions. The community forum used in this study could help both community members and PCPs improve their communication with each other and engage in meaningful dialogue about PrCA.