Strategies to enhance the approach to prostate cancer screening of South African black men in the Free State: a Delphi study

Abstract

Background. The incidence and mortality rates of prostate cancer (PCa) are disproportionately on the increase among South African black men. Recent studies show a greater net benefit of prostate-specific antigen screening of black men compared with the general population. There are, however, knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) gaps among primary healthcare providers (HCPs) and users (black men) on PCa screening. Likewise, there is a scarcity of research on strategies to address these gaps.

Objective. This study sought to determine complementing strategies to enhance the approach to PCa screening of African men in the Free State, South Africa, from the perspectives of primary HCPs and users.

Methods. This study utilized a three-round modified Delphi survey to achieve its aim. Consensus was determined by an a priori threshold of ≥70% of agreement.

Results. The survey involved a multidisciplinary panel of 19 experts. The consensus was reached on 34 items (strategies) to enhance the approach to PCa screening in the study setting. Community health education strategies were proffered, relating to relevant topics, methods, venues of delivery, and persons to deliver the education. Continuing education topics and methods of instruction were suggested for primary HCPs. Conclusions. In view of the existing KAP gaps in PCa screening among primary HCPs and users (black men), an expert consensus was determined, on complementing strategies to enhance the approach to PCa screening of South African black men in the study setting.