The relationship between prostate cancer knowledge and beliefs and intentions to attend PSA screening among at-risk men

ObjectiveTo examine the level of knowledge regarding prostate cancer and screening, to investigate prostate cancer illness perceptions, and to test the efficacy of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) for understanding intentions to attend prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening, when offered by a doctor or self-initiated.MethodsTwo hundred and twenty three men completed the PROCASE knowledge scale, the Revised Illness Perceptions Questionnaire and a questionnaire developed to assess attitudes, subjective norms and perceived control over intentions to attend for PSA testing.ResultsParticipants had a high level of knowledge and accurate perceptions of prostate cancer. Controlling for knowledge and experience with prostate cancer, the TPB accounted for 49% (p < 0.001) of the variation in intentions to attend if recommended by a doctor.ConclusionThe sample of at-risk men were characterised by good knowledge, accurate mental representation of prostate cancer, and positive beliefs towards the PSA test. Components of the TPB accounted for statistically significant amounts of variation in intentions to attend for testing.Practice implicationsBeliefs about prostate cancer do not appear to influence PSA testing intentions; healthcare providers’ recommendations may have the strongest influence on decisions to attend for PSA testing.