Knowledge, attitude, and practices concerning prostate cancer and its prevention in the Lebanese population

Abstract

Abstract Prostate cancer (PC) is a frequent neoplasm among men. This study aimed to determine the awareness level of Lebanese men on PC in terms of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP). This was a cross-sectional online based survey, conducted on Lebanese men between April and December 2021. We collected data regarding socio-demographic characteristics, habits, and patient/family history of PC, and assessed the level of knowledge (27 items), attitudes (6 items) toward PC, and the level of practice related to the prostate exam and PSA test. We evaluated 844 responses. Only 4.6% of our participants demonstrated an adequate Knowledge level about PC. A greater score was achieved with participants of higher educational levels (p < 0.001) and those who had previously heard about PC (p = 0.002). Around 40% of responders displayed an adequate attitude toward PC. Higher educational level (p < 0.001), being informed by the physician and/or urologist about the PSA test (p < 0.001), having previously heard about PC (p = 0.001), being advised to be screened for PC (p = 0.006), and being employed (p = 0.007), improved attitude level toward PC. As for practice, PSA testing and prostate exam performance significantly increased with age, monthly income, being employed, history of prostate problems, being informed by a physician and/or urologist about the advantages and disadvantages of having the PSA test, and attitude towards PC. With unsatisfactory KAP levels toward PC, tailored awareness campaigns according to the identified predictors of PC KAP are needed in Lebanese men to prevent and alleviate their disease progression.

Keywords

• Prostate cancer
• Knowledge
• Attitude
• Practice
• Lebanon