AWARENESS AND PERCEPTION OF MEN IN BENIN CITY TOWARDS MEDIA CAMPAIGNS ON PROSTATE CANCER

ABSTRACT 

This study was designed to investigate the awareness and perception of men in Benin city towards media campaigns on prostate cancer. The research study was conducted in Benin City, involving 400 respondents, to systematically collect data regarding their knowledge of prostate cancer, their exposure to broadcast media campaign messages concerning the disease, and their perceptions of the effectiveness of these messages. The study's findings indicated that the broadcast media campaigns had a moderate impact on enhancing respondents' understanding of prostate cancer and positively influenced their assessments of the message efficacy, Moreover, the research uncovered that many individuals who were acquainted with these media campaigns had limited prior knowledge about prostate cancer. Some men were just beginning to acquaint themselves with the concept of genetic testing for the disease, and only a minority believed in its genetic predisposition, consenting to undergo DNA analysis. Furthermore, the study illuminated that individuals' attitudes toward assessing the risks associated with prostate cancer were influenced by the quantity of information they had amassed on the subject. In light of these findings, the research offers pertinent recommendations. It emphasizes the necessity for well-conceived mass media campaigns in Benin City aimed at dispelling prevailing misconceptions regarding prostate cancer. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of prioritizing prevention in future campaigns. This entails providing comprehensive information on the causes, prevention strategies, and available treatment options, recognizing that a guaranteed cure for prostate cancer remains elusive despite the availability of medical procedures and therapies.