Recruitment of Males from Underserved Communities in Prostate Cancer Research: Reflections and Recommendations

BACKGROUND: Prostate cancer carries a significantly higher burden among Black versus White men in the United States. In Suffolk County, NY, prostate cancer incidence rates are 75% higher among Black individuals with twice the mortality rate. METHODS: To address this disparity, a community-based project was implemented. The project used focus groups to assess knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, and health care-seeking practices of Black men. Recruitment was difficult, community members were resistant to participate. Trusted community leaders proved to be the most successful asset for recruitment. RESULTS: In total, three focus groups were held, with a total of 18 participants. Most participants were referred by their school district, pastor, or a community-based organization. CONCLUSION: A significant lesson learned was the importance of establishing trust, as research done without establishing meaningful connections leads to more mistrust. The downstream effects from the team’s initial outreach demonstrate how rich and robust interconnecting relationships may develop within the community.