Research and Insights: Development of a Minority Prostate Cancer Research Digest: Communication Strategy Statement for Black Men
Minority populations, particularly Black men, have a greater incidence, prevalence, and mortality rate from prostate cancer than other groups. Because of this, communicating pertinent medical information and disseminating materials specific to Black men is critical to combat this trend.
University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications Journalism Professor Kim Walsh-Childers, STEM Translational Communication Center Director Janice Krieger, UF College of Pharmacy Professor Folakemi Odedina and colleagues developed a preliminary Minority Prostate Cancer (MiCaP) research communication strategy and guide using data gathered from African American health experts and a diverse group of Black men to gauge how best to reach that group. The goal is to provide preventative information as well as coping strategies and resources if diagnosed with prostate cancer.
In a series of focus groups, the researchers found that Black men, in general, did not feel well informed about health issues generally, and prostate cancer in particular. In some cases, men believe they are informed without realizing how much information they lack. In addition, Black men want to be empowered with preventative health information, but the fear of potentially life-altering and/or terminal diseases leads to a sense of denial and an overwhelming urge to remain in the dark.
Posted: September 11, 2020
Category: Digest Only
