Knowledge and barriers related to prostate and colorectal cancer prevention in underserved black men.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: This qualitative study examined underserved black males' perspectives about prostate and colorectal cancer screening. METHODS: Black male residents of Newark, NJ, > or =18 years of age, were recruited to participate in focus groups. Two groups were conducted with a total of 24 participants. Transcripts were analyzed using an immersion/crystallization approach. RESULTS: Three major themes were identified, while men reflected on their experiences with prostate and colorectal cancer screening (1) motivation for seeking screening; (2) fear associated with screenings and (3) healthcare system barriers (e.g., patient-doctor relationships, insurance and mistrust of healthcare professionals). Participants also gave recommendations on how to increase preventive screening. DISCUSSION: Fear and past experiences with healthcare serve as motivators and demotivators of preventive screening behavior. Interventions that address motivation and fear are recommended to increase preventive screening among this population.