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Prostate Cancer Awareness in the Middle East: A Cross-Sectional International Study Publisher Pubmed



Sayan M1 ; Eren AA2 ; Tuac Y3 ; Langoe A4 ; Alali B5 ; Aynaci O6 ; Mohammadipour S7 ; Vahedi F8 ; Daneshmand B9 ; Abbas W10 ; Hawsawi Y11 ; Nader T12 ; Joseph J13 ; Wahby R14 Show All Authors
Authors
  1. Sayan M1
  2. Eren AA2
  3. Tuac Y3
  4. Langoe A4
  5. Alali B5
  6. Aynaci O6
  7. Mohammadipour S7
  8. Vahedi F8
  9. Daneshmand B9
  10. Abbas W10
  11. Hawsawi Y11
  12. Nader T12
  13. Joseph J13
  14. Wahby R14
  15. Ozgenc I15
  16. Mulahussain L16, 17
  17. Moningi S1
  18. Orio PF1
  19. Atalar B18
  20. Eren MF19

Source: JCO Global Oncology Published:2024


Abstract

PURPOSE: Prostate cancer has emerged as a significant public health challenge in the Middle East, characterized by rising incidence rates and a concerning mortality-to-incidence ratio. Yet, despite these alarming trends, data regarding prostate cancer awareness in the region remain limited. To address this critical knowledge gap, this study investigates prostate cancer awareness within the Middle East. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Across-sectional survey was performed among 5,913 men age 40 years and older across 14 Middle Eastern countries between January 1, 2022, and July 31, 2023. Excluding those with a history of prostate cancer, a validated questionnaire assessed prostate cancer awareness. Data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages for categorical variables, medians and ranges for continuous variables, and Pearson chi-square analysis for relationships between education levels and awareness of prostate cancer. RESULTS: The survey achieved a 74.9% response rate, with 4,431 male participants. Regarding prostate cancer awareness, 83.8% of participants had heard of the disease. However, only 31.0% correctly identified it as the most common malignancy in men, and 21.8% believed it affects both sex. Awareness of screening was limited, with just 19.1% recognizing the prostate-specific antigen test's role. Additionally, participants had a pessimistic view, with a mean perception that 75% of patients with prostate cancer die from the disease, rather than from other causes. Higher education levels were associated with significantly increased awareness of prostate cancer (P <.001). CONCLUSION: This study reveals that while general awareness of the disease exists, crucial knowledge deficits regarding risk factors, screening, and prognosis are evident. Addressing these knowledge gaps through culturally tailored education may improve early detection rates, treatment outcomes, and ultimately reduce the burden of prostate cancer in the Middle East. © 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology.
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