The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #39753

Carolyn Bachino, MPH, School of Public Health, University of Texas, 1200 Herman Pressler, Houston, TX 77030, 404/323-1816, zby8@cdc.gov, Sally W Vernon, PhD, School of Public Health/Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, University of Texas - Houston, 7000 Fannin, Suite 2560, Houston, TX 77030, and Evelyn Chan, MD, Dept. of Medicine, University of Texas, 6431 Fannin, Suite 1.122MSB, Houston, TX 77030.

Background: Very little research has been done to determine factors influencing prostate cancer screening decisions among Hispanic/Latino men. This research will help health educators develop educational programs and assist physicians when counseling with Latino male patients about prostate cancer screening. Objective: To uncover gaps in knowledge and determine socio-cultural influences that affect prostate cancer screening behavior among Latino men. Methods: To uncover gaps in knowledge, we surveyed 32 Latino men in the Houston-Galveston region. We conducted 2 interviews and 3 focus group discussion sessions, each with 4 to 6 Hispanic males. Participants were stratified by level of acculturation to the United States. Focus group sessions were recorded, transcribed, and later analyzed using NUD.IST. A Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was designed using commentary from written transcripts. Results were analyzed descriptively. Results: Survey results reveal a lack of knowledge about prostate cancer screening among Latino men, along with culturally derived misconceptions about prostate cancer screening. Focus group and interview data reveal differences in influencing factors across acculturation levels. VAS results confirm a belief among Latino men that their risk of getting prostate cancer is not enough to merit screening, and unfamiliarity with the consequences of having untreated prostate cancer. Conclusions: There is a lack of basic education about prostate cancer screening to Latino communities. As a result, prostate cancer risk may be grossly underestimated among Latino men. Cultural upbringing and social norms play strong influencing roles in men’s decisions about prostate cancer screening and should be considered when working with Latino men.

Learning Objectives:

• 3. Describe the process and challenges of recruiting Latino men to participate in focus groups.
  7. Recognize the need for cultural awareness in approaching the topic of prostate cancer screening with Latinos.
  11. Recognize the role that acculturation plays in Latino men’s attitudes about prostate cancer screening.
  15. List 5 barriers to prostate cancer screening that are common among Latino men.

Keywords: Cancer Screening, Culture

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.