Developing a predictive model for prostate cancer screening intent among African American males

Abstract

The purpose of this cross-sectional, predictive correlational study was to examine the relationship between African American male inmates’ behavioral intentions with regard to the intention to screen for prostate cancer. To this end, the study devised and tested a model of relevant predictors, including Direct Attitude, Indirect Subjective Norms, Indirect Outcome Evaluation, and Health Literacy. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings suggest that African American male inmates in the federal prison system may have slightly different priorities relative to non-incarcerated populations. The implications for nurses and other healthcare providers working in the prison system include: empowering inmates by building a trusting relationship; investigating ways to improve health literacy in this population, and developing an understanding of the factors that inspire African American inmates to engage in the decision-making process. The limitations of this study include a reliance on participant self-reports and a relatively small sample size, which limit the generalizability of the results. Nonetheless, future interventions may arise from providers’ greater ability to understand and predict health-related behaviors and foster proactive health attitudes in the inmate population.