Communication message strategies for increasing knowledge about prostate cancer screening

Abstract

BACKGROUND: This community-based intervention study examined the effects of 2 different message strategies for presenting information about the prostate specific antigen (PSA) test. METHODS: A quasi-experimental longitudinal design with 2 intervention and 1 control group. RESULTS: Knowledge increased significantly among participants who received either version of the intervention message and remained elevated at 12 months. Presenting information in the context of other men's health issues was associated with greater increases in knowledge relative to PSA only. CONCLUSIONS: Community-based interventions can increase knowledge about prostate cancer screening. Clinicians need to take careful account of what their patients understand and correct misperceptions.