Creole men and prostate cancer in Bluefields, South Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua

Abstract

This study analyzed the knowledge, attitudes and practices of male Creoles of the Beholdeen neighborhood in relation to prostate cancer, using quantitative and qualitative techniques during 2014-2015. A survey was carried out for a sample of 251 men. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. For the qualitative sample, 10 interviews were conducted who’s the results were treated through content analysis and discourse analysis. The findings revealed that male Creoles’ level of knowledge about prostate cancer in Bluefield’s, South Caribbean Coastal Autonomous Region (RACCS) is low. Eighty-one percent of respondents said they have heard about this disease, and their friends are the main source of information. They consider that having more than one sexual partner is the cause of prostate cancer. Among the symptoms they know denote blurred vision, headache, erectile dysfunction and hip pain. Men's attitudes to prostate cancer are negative. Although they agree that it is extremely important to have adequate knowledge about this disease, thus, they are prepared to receive medical attention only if they have any related symptoms. On the other hand, they point out that it is important to regularly perform some tests for the detection of cancer (preferably ultrasound); However, when asking if they were willing to take the Digital Rectal Exam, they refered to issue in a negative way. Since unpleasant ideas emerge on the subject, causing feelings of fear and shame, based mainly on male chauvinism. The preventive actions practiced by these men are almost useless.