Assessing the Knowledge, Self-Efficacy and Health Behaviors of Male Beneficiaries Assigned to the National Capital Area Regarding Participation in Prostate Screening
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe the knowledge base, perceived threats, benefits, barriers, and self-efficacy of prostate cancer screening. The Health Belief Model (HBM) was the theoretical framework that guided this study. This study utilized a convenience sampling of 234 males in the National Capital Area. A 58-item EPPS (Edwards Prostate Cancer Perception Screening Instrument) questionnaire was distributed to all interested participants. The study used both inferential and descriptive statistics to report findings. The majority (93%) of the participants were very knowledgeable about prostate cancer and prostate cancer screening as indicated by high scores on the knowledge scales. However, the majority of the study population appeared to be unsure of when to start screening for prostate cancer. All concepts of the HBM (perceived threats, benefits, barriers, and self-efficacy) appear to affect screening patterns as indicated by high mean scores on the perception scales. The majority (89%) of the participants were very trusting of their health care provider. They also reported obtaining most of the information about their health care from their provider. Two thirds of the participants reported screening annually for prostate cancer. Significant differences were noted in the screening pattern between Caucasian and the African American groups (p= .001). Contrary to previous studies, this study found that African American males screened for prostate cancer more frequently than Caucasian males. The information gained in this study can be helpful in providing guidance to the researchers in developing educational programs to encourage regular participation in prostate concer screening.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA421180
Entities
People
- Angelo D. Moore
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences