Knowledge of prostate cancer among African American men: A systematic review

Objective: Recent studies indicate that many African American men may not be making informed decisions about prostate cancer early detection. This is partly due to patients having limited knowledge about early detection of the disease.

Methods: The present review is based upon bibliographic searches in PubMed and CINAHL and relevant search terms. Articles (n = 235) published in English from 1993 through July 31, 2020 were identified using the following MESH search terms and Boolean algebra commands: prostate cancer and knowledge and African Americans.

Results: Forty-two articles were eligible for inclusion. The results of this literature review indicate that many African American men have inadequate knowledge of prostate cancer and prostate cancer early detection. Studies indicate that knowledge of prostate cancer is particularly low among older, less-educated, lower-income, and unmarried men, along with those who lack a regular physician or health insurance. Many African American men are unaware that they are at increased risk of prostate cancer because of their age or race.

Conclusions: Culturally appropriate educational efforts are needed to inform African- American men about the pros and cons of prostate cancer early detection and about risk factors for the disease so that they can make an informed decision about whether prostate cancer early detection is right for them. Of particular concern is the prostate cancer knowledge of low-income and less-educated men, along with those who lack health care insurance or a regular provider.