Experiences of men undergoing prostate cancer screening at a hospital in Gauteng, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Prostate cancer is a global concern and a leading cause of death among men. Screening for prostate cancer is crucial for early detection and to mitigate advanced disease and high-cost treatments. However, men are not well informed about the disease and tend not to be supported during prostate cancer screening.

Aim: The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of men undergoing prostate cancer screening at a hospital in Gauteng province, South Africa.

Setting: The study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Gauteng province.

Methods: A qualitative exploratory research design was followed. A convenient sampling method was used and the data were collected through in-depth interviews conducted with 19 participants. The data were analysed using thematic analyses.

Results: Three themes were generated, namely: (1) prostate cancer knowledge, (2) screening influencers and (3) support needs.

Conclusion: The insights from the study underscore the need for improved management of discomfort and pain during screening (including education) and emotional support, as well as considering poor uptake and the high prevalence of prostate cancer among black men.

Contribution: The study highlights the importance of informing men about the prostate cancer screening process to gain their cooperation, including the management of discomfort and pain, and to provide a support person during the process while addressing the high prevalence of the disease among black men.