A RESEARCH PROPOSAL ONASSESSMENT OF PROSTRATE CANCER AWARENESS KNOWLWDGE PERCEPTION ON SELF VULNERABILITY AND SCREENING UPTAKE AMONG MEN IN SOUTH WEST KISUMU WARD KISUMU COUNTY.

Abstract

Prostate cancer is the 4th leading cause of cancer deaths in Kenya and the commonest among elderly males. Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in one hundred and twelve countries and the leading cause of cancer death in forty eight countries; it is the fifth leading cause of male cancer related deaths worldwide. In Kenya it constitutes fifteen point six percent of all cancers with age specific incidence rate of 40.6/100,000 (Global cancer project]. In Kenya research data involving prostate cancer is lacking due to poor funding from the government and fewer scientists and urologist interested in research. Active screening uptake among Kenyan men remains low despite early screening and detection being the most effective intervention tool for the disease. Therefore the main objective of this study is to assess the prostate cancer awareness among men residing in South West ward within Kisumu County. The specific objectives are to determine the relationship between socio-demographic characteristics and uptake of prostate cancer screening; to assess the knowledge levels on Prostrate cancer amongst men in South west Kisumu ward Kisumu County; to examine the perception on self-vulnerability towards Prostrate cancer amongst men in South west ward Kisumu County and to assess the uptake levels of Prostate cancer screening practice among men in South west ward Kisumu County. The study population was adult men of reproductive age 35 years and above residing in South West Kisumu ward of Kisumu County. The sample size was 100 respondents. Data collection was done through the use of closed-ended questionnaires The data was cleaned and coded then analyzed using percentages, proportions and ratios and correlations with the results presented in tables, charts and graphs. Out of the 100 men interviewed with a mean age of 45 years 77% of them were aware of prostate cancer with 79% having poor knowledge on prostate cancer, perception on self-vulnerability was poor at 62%with a very low uptake of prostate cancer screening at 25%. The study demonstrates higher awareness levels on prostate cancer and poor knowledge on prostate cancer. Knowledge levels on prostate cancer are influenced by education levels. The results will be used to develop preventive programs for men.