Early Detection Of Prostate Cancer Among Black And White In San Bernardino

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify attitudes toward prostate cancer, screening practices and deterrents to early detection and treatment among Black and White men 40 years and older residing in San Bernardino and Riverside, California. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire developed and pre-tested among similar participants in the study. Two hundred and fourteen men participated in the study, of which 75% were Black and 25% White. The majority (53%) was between the ages of 40-50 years, and 74% were married. The study found that there was very little difference in socioeconomic status between Whites and Blacks. Most (34%) had a college degree, but more Whites (92%) had a personal family physician than Blacks (77%), and slightly more Whites (62%) than Blacks (57%) said that prostate screening was done regularly. Findings from this study should aid in the design and development of culturally appropriate programs that will detect prostate cancer in this population at an earlier stage when treatment is more successful.