Date of Conferral

2020

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Health Services

Advisor

Dr. Egondu Onyejekwe

Abstract

In Los Angeles County, California, prostate cancer (PC) is the second primary cause of cancer-related death in men. Previous studies have focused on sociodemographic factors influencing racial and ethnic inequalities in health in the United States. However, research was lacking regarding if and to what extent social-ecological factors predict PC screening, specifically among African American men residing in Los Angeles County. The purpose of this quantitative study, using a cross-sectional design, was to identify the factors that may align with PC screening among African American men living in Los Angeles. African American men aged 45 and older were the targeted population for this study. Individuals included in this study were those who had a digital rectal exam or prostate-specific antigen test for PC screening. The sociodemographic risk factors examined to determine factors associated with PC screening of AA men in Los Angeles included age, income, education, and marital status. This study was guided by the socioecological theory. Data for this study involved secondary data from the SEER/California Health Interview Survey. I used the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) IBM software version 25 for analysis based on the research questions and hypothesis. Inferential statistics were performed using chi-square, logistic regression, and stepwise logistic regression; age and education remained significant predictors of PC screening as did age when combined with married with no kids’ family support type. Potential positive social change from this study could provide meaningful evidence-based and informed health intervention approaches for individuals at risk of developing PC and for individuals who are less likely to be screened for PC.

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