Point of prostate cancer diagnosis experiences and needs of black men: The Florida CaPCaS study

Background Black men are disproportionately affected by prostate cancer and little is known about their experiences at the point of prostate cancer diagnosis (PPCD). Men who self-identify as black are commonly treated in a singular cohort even though they may be of diverse ethnic origin. This is especially important given the increasing number of foreign-born blacks in the United States. Objective To examine the experiences and needs of ethnically diverse black men at the PPCD to develop an interpretative framework. Method The research population was black men who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer during 2006-2010. We used a qualitative research design based on grounded theory principles. Using a semistructured interview guide, a trained interviewer collected data on the participants' PPCD experiences. The data analyses included verifying the narrative data, coding data, and developing an interpretative framework. Results From an initial sample of 212 black men, data were collected from 31 participants. The interpretative framework that emerged from the study describes the status of black men at the PPCD, experiences of black men at the PPCD, and emotional reactions of black men at the PPCD. Of note is the need among men at the PPCD for psycho-oncology support, emotional support, and time to reflect on the diagnosis. Limitations Men with different experiences may have chosen not to respond to recruitment efforts or refused participation in the study. Conclusion The framework provides information that physicians can use to help their patients cope at the PPCD.