Black men have been shown to have a higher risk of prostate cancer when compared to men from other ethnic groups, and they also die at a younger age. Although many Black men are aware of the benefits of screening, they are less aware of limitations. Some researchers felt that decisions were made to participate in screening without fully understanding the necessity for screening. More information is needed to help them make informed decisions about prostate cancer screening for early detection (Taylor, et. al., 2001; Taylor, et. al., 2002). A study among African American men living in Philadelphia to ascertain how receptive they were to regular screening for prostate cancer, showed that African American males in that setting were willing to participate in annual prostate screening modalities. The study further indicated a need for education and advice about prostate cancer screening and prevention for Black men (Myers, et. al., 1996). This and other studies also indicate certain obstacles to screening and a need for education and advice about prostate cancer and participation in activities for early detection. Some obstacles to early detection included: being able to make and keep an appointment, and attitudes of other family members toward prostate screening. It is important to know that when the cancer is detected early, there can be a reduction in early mortality and an improvement in the quality of life as well. When the cancer the detected late, as in the case for many Black men, there is an increase in mortality and a faster rate of recurrence (Boyd, et. al., 2001; Kirby,1996; Banerjee, et. al, 2002).

A study of attitudes of Blacks toward prostate cancer screening trials was conducted in Los Angeles, California. Results indicated that African American males at the middle socio-economic level were more willing to participate in clinical trials when compared to those of lower socio-economic levels. The study also examined possible barriers to participation in screening and found that fear of medical experimentation and distrust for the “medical establishment” were main barriers for African Americans (Robinson, et. al., 1996). Differences in socio-economic status and survival after prostate for Black and White men are also supported by other studies (Robbins, et.al., 2000). Furthermore, younger Black men in a lower income bracket and with less education appear to have more prostate problems when compared to White men and the outcomes for treatment are not as promising for Black men who also experience poorer survival and increased mortality (Lubeck, et. al., 2001; Piffath, et. al., 2001; Walker, et. al., 1995).

The literature shows the importance to prostate cancer to men, especially to Black men. It further showed the importance of early detection in circumventing mortality rates as a result of prostate cancer. While many studies have focused on Black men and prostate cancer, many of them failed to investigate the factors that inhibit early detection. The present study seeks to fill this gap in the literature so as to affect better health seeking behaviors among Black and White men and to produce better outcomes with respect to prevention or early detection and treatment of prostate cancer.