Prostate cancer awareness and factors influencing screening among men at St. Francis Referral Hospital, Tanzania

Abstract

Introduction: Prostate cancer (PCa) is among the top three cancers in men, after liver and lung cancers, accounting for 15%. Its incidence varies widely by region. The age-standardized incidence rates are 79.1/100,000 in Oceania, 73.7/100,000 in North America, and 62.1/100,000 in Europe. Although Africa currently has an incidence rate of 26.6/100,000, it is predicted to have the highest rate in the future. Without adequate public health education, men continue to suffer from PCa due to delayed diagnosis and treatment. This study aims to assess knowledge, awareness, and factors influencing PCa screening practices among adult men.

Method: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July to December 2025 at Saint Francis Referral Hospital using a pretested, semistructured questionnaire to collect data. All participants provided signed informed consent. The study collected information on socio-demographic factors, knowledge and awareness of PCa, screening, and factors affecting screening habits. Data were analysed and processed using SPSS.

Results: A total of 399 adult men participated in the study, most of whom were aged 60 to 74 years (58.9%). 24.1% of participants were aware of PCa screening, and only 30.3% knew that Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is a screening method for PCa. Psychological fear and cultural beliefs were the leading factors hindering PCa screening behaviour.

Conclusion: Education is needed to improve access to PCa screening services and promote early detection to reduce morbidity and mortality.