KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE TOWARD PROSTATE CANCER AND ITS SCREENING METHODS IN QASSIM REGION.

Objective: Prostate cancer is a significant health concern globally, and in Saudi Arabia, it is the sixth most prevalent type of cancer among adult males over the age of 75. However, awareness and attitudes towards prostate cancer screening vary widely. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding prostate cancer and its screening methods in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 384 male participants aged 20 years and above. Data were collected using an online Arabic questionnaire. Knowledge scores were calculated, and participants were classified as having good or poor knowledge. The Chi-squared test and Spearman's correlation analysis were used for statistical analysis.

Results: Most participants (42.8%) were aged 20-29 years, and 90.3% were Saudi nationals. Only 61.6% had heard of prostate cancer, and 30.4% were aware of both the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and rectal exam. Knowledge about risk factors was poor, with smoking identified by 42.3% and obesity by 23.9%. Symptoms were better recognized, with 67.9% identifying blood in urine or semen. Only 10.9% had ever had a prostate exam, and 6.3% had a PSA test. Knowledge was significantly associated with age, educational level, occupational status, and working in the health-care field.

Conclusion: The study revealed gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding prostate cancer and its screening methods. Region-specific public health education strategies, particularly focusing on men under 40 and those outside health-care professions, are urgently needed.