Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Towards Prostate Cancer Screening Amongst Men Aged 40-60 Years in The Buea Health District: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Asu Carine Ndum, Cyril Kamadjou, Divine Enoru Eyongeta, Ghislain Dema, Ngende Rosine, Ngwa Fred Ngunjoh, Tendongfor Nicholas
Published: September 3, 2025 • DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI.2025.120800050
Abstract
Background: Prostate cancer is a significant global health burden, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where late diagnosis is common. It is the second most diagnosed cancer among men and contributes substantially to cancer-related deaths. In Cameroon, prostate cancer is the second most deadly cancer among men, highlighting the need for improved awareness and screening practices.
Objective: The objective of the study was to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices towards prostate cancer screening among men aged 40-60 years in the Buea Health District.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Buea Health District, Cameroon, from February 2024 to May 2024. A multi-stage sampling method was used to recruit 314 men aged 40-60 years. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 26.0.
Results: The study revealed that 62.74% of participants had poor knowledge on prostate cancer, while 50.32% exhibited positive attitudes towards screening. However, only 3.18% reported good practices regarding screening. Participants from Molyko were 4.637 times more likely to have poor knowledge (AOR = 4.637; CI: 0.79-6.28; p < 0.001). Participants from Molyko were significantly more likely to have a positive attitude (AOR = 18.556; CI: 6.897-20.944; p < 0.001). Secondary education level (AOR = 2.807; CI: 0.327-3.865; p = 0.004) and being aged 40–49 years (AOR = 0.467; CI: -1.335-0.972; p = 0.009) were also significant predictors. Self-employed participants were significantly less likely to have poor practices (AOR = 0.046; CI: -5.00-0.250; p = 0.002). Participants aged 40–49 years were more likely to have poor practices compared to those aged 50–60 years (AOR = 5.828; CI: 0.13-9.39; p = 0.034).
Conclusion: Most participants had poor knowledge and practices but a relatively positive attitude towards prostate cancer screening. Key predictors of KAP included health area, income, education level, employment status, and age group. Targeted educational and behavioral interventions are needed to bridge knowledge gaps and improve screening practices.