Effect of Prostate Cancer Education on Saudi Men: Knowledge, Beliefs, and Screening Intentions.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of a prostate cancer educational program in enhancing knowledge, beliefs, and screening intentions among Saudi men.

METHODS

A quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group was employed. Participants (n=152) were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. Assessments of knowledge, beliefs, and screening intentions were conducted at baseline and one-month post-intervention. Independent samples t-tests were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

Significant improvements were observed in the intervention group compared to the control group after one month. The mean score for knowledge increased by 7.72 (p = 0.001). Beliefs regarding susceptibility, severity, and benefits of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and digital rectal examination (DRE) also improved significantly (p < 0.005). Additionally, health motivation and intention to screen increased (p < 0.005).

Conclusion

Prostate cancer educational programs can effectively enhance knowledge, address beliefs, and promote screening intentions among Saudi men. Implementing these programs holds promise for increasing awareness and reducing the burden of prostate cancer through early detection and timely intervention.