KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PERCEPTIONS OF PROSTATE CANCER AMONG MALE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN SOUTH AFRICA.

Nokukhanya Thembane; Portia Nombulelo Dlamini

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v4i6.372

Authors

Nokukhanya Thembane Mangosuthu University of Technology
Portia Nombulelo Dlamini Mangosuthu University of Technology

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v4i6.372

Keywords:

Prostate cancer, University students, Knowledge, Attitude, Perceptions, South Africa

Abstract

Background:

The aim of this study was to investigate the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding prostate cancer among male university students in South Africa. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men worldwide, and early detection is key to successful treatment. However, knowledge gaps and misconceptions regarding prostate cancer can hinder early detection and treatment.

Methods:

The study adopted a cross-sectional design and collected data using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire covered the risk factors, symptoms, prevention, and screening of prostate cancer.

Results:

The results of the study revealed that while 92.3% of the participants had heard of prostate cancer, only 69.6% had acceptable knowledge on the symptoms of the disease, and 84.6% believed that prostate cancer could be prevented. This suggests that while there is a general awareness of prostate cancer among male university students in South Africa, there are significant knowledge gaps regarding the disease.

Additionally, family history, alcohol consumption, and smoking were identified as major risk factors for prostate cancer. However, there was a screening knowledge gap among the respondents, as only 32.3% were aware of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, which is a common screening method for prostate cancer.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this study highlights the need for increased education and awareness about prostate cancer among male university students in South Africa. The findings suggest that there are significant knowledge gaps regarding the disease, particularly regarding screening and family history. The study findings can be useful in developing targeted health interventions aimed at reducing the burden of prostate cancer among young men.

Recommendation:

The findings suggest that more attention should be given to educating young men on the symptoms, risk factors, and prevention of prostate cancer.

Author Biographies

Nokukhanya Thembane , Mangosuthu University of Technology

Nokukhanya Thembane’s background is a board-certified Medical Laboratory Scientist with expertise in Clinical Pathology (Microbiology, Haematology and Clinical Chemistry), has extensive experience in medical education and community engagement in the field of Medical Laboratory Science and Medical Technology. Her passion for education and educating the next generation of Medical Laboratory Scientists as well as researchers is her contribution to the advancement of the field. Her research and supervision of research projects are directed to the diagnostic medicine, pathogenesis, epidemiology, development of alternative treatment interventions, that can improve patient outcomes and advance our understanding of diseases.

Portia Nombulelo Dlamini, Mangosuthu University of Technology

Portia Nombulelo Dlamini is a Bacherlor of Health Science in Medical Laboratory Sciences graduate specialized in Clinical Pathology (Medical Microbiology, Haematology and Clinical Chemistry). Her special interest is Clinical Chemistry, researching the cancer of the prostate. Ms Dlamini serves in the public health sector of the South African Department of Health and is a registered medical laboratory scientist (MLS).