Earlier work explored barriers and facilitators to accessing prostate cancer screening, particularly in underserved communities, and provided valuable insights to build upon.
This study will explore perspectives on how genetic risk for prostate cancer is explained and understood through in-depth interviews with members of underserved communities. Findings from this work, alongside earlier results, will be used to co-design clear and accessible digital educational resources in collaboration with community members and relevant charities.
Participation in cancer screening programmes in the UK varies, with differences linked to socioeconomic status, ethnicity and health literacy. Similar inequalities are seen in access to prostate cancer genetics services, indicating a need for improved engagement.
Successful integration of genetics into prostate cancer care requires clear and inclusive information about genetic testing processes, possible outcomes and interpretation of results. Currently, there are limited resources explaining genetic risk for prostate cancer in an accessible way.
Co-production with representatives from underserved communities will ensure that educational materials are understandable, relevant and acceptable to all.