Dr Guerra on the Implications of a Study on Prostate Cancer Screening in Diverse Populations

Carmen Guerra, MD, MSCE, FACP, Ruth C. and Raymond G. Perelman Professor of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, vice chair, Diversity and Inclusion, Department of Medicine, associate director, Diversity and Outreach, Abramson Cancer Center, discusses the implications of research into the rates of prostate cancer screening in a population of diverse men, highlighting initiatives taking place to address disparities in patients with prostate cancer.

At the 2024 AACR Annual Meeting, investigators presented findings from an investigation of prostate cancer screening rates following patients’ viewing of a culturally sensitive video and completion of a questionnaire on intention to screen. Patients (n = 619) completed pre- and post-video questionnaires on prostate cancer knowledge,and the video was found to significantly improve knowledge in 5 of 10 items and reduce decisional conflict regarding prostate cancer screening. Notably, 93% of patients intended to undergo prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening, and 98% of patients found the video useful.

Guerra begins by stating that when provided with the same prostate cancer information, Black men were less likely than White men to pursue testing. Recognizing this gap, investigators identified a critical need for a video specifically designed to address the concerns of the Black community, she explains. The video aimed to equip men with accurate information and connect them with opportunities for free screenings in the Philadelphia area, Guerra explains.

Investigators are now looking to extend this initiative to other diverse populations, particularly the Latino and Hispanic communities, according to Guerra. Although the current video is accessible to English-speaking Hispanic men, a Spanish version is essential to reach those who primarily speak Spanish, she continues. Influential figures within these communities are being considered to help adapt the video, and investigators’ first step will be translating it into Spanish, Guerra adds.

This effort is part of Abramson Cancer Center’s broader mission to decentralize clinical trials and cancer screenings, she says. By offering mobile mammography, mobile PSA screenings, and at-home colon cancer tests, investigators are striving to make cancer screening more accessible, she concludes.