Assessment of knowledge and attitude of prostate cancer among adult male patients attending the Ampath Clinic of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is a global health issue. People living with HIV (PLWH) have a probable higher cancer risk due to immunosuppression. This study evaluated male prostate cancer knowledge and attitudes to identify gaps, inform interventions, and enhance awareness and screening services uptake.

Objective: To determine the knowledge and attitudes towards prostate cancer among male PLWH

Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.

Subjects: Male PLWH aged 30-65 receiving care at MTRH AMPATH Eldoret, Kenya.

Methods: Structured questionnaires were administered to eligible participants. Data was analyzed with SPSS. Descriptive statistics; frequencies and percentages, were used for categorical data, while inferential statistics; Pearson's correlation, were used to determine the relationships between PCa knowledge, education levels, and sources of income.

Results: Of the 356 participants, 25.8% were aged 48-53 years. Overall, 77% were aware of prostate cancer, 64% knew about early detection and 89.5% had not been screened. Awareness of risks, signs, and symptoms revealed 31.7% and 32% respectively. The correlation between prostate cancer knowledge and socioeconomic/ demographic characteristics was significant. The odds ratio for prostate cancer awareness were 2.4 (95%CI: 1.4-4.2) for individuals with secondary education compared to those with primary education, 1.7 (95%CI: 1.2-2.7) for self-employed individuals compared to the employed, 2.8 (95%CI: 1.7-4.7) for individuals with tertiary education compared to those with primary education.

Conclusion: The findings indicate low awareness and underutilization of available prostate cancer screening services.

Recommendation: Healthcare providers should enhance education on prostate cancer, including risk, signs, symptoms, and early screening. Future research be tailored to screening programs.