The Article in Brief

Patient Education on Prostate Cancer Screening and Involvement in Decision Making

Alex H. Krist, MD, MPH, and colleagues

Background National guidelines state that doctors should not screen men for prostate cancer without first discussing potential harms, benefits, and scientific uncertainties about the screening process. This study examines whether patients’ review of prostate cancer information before a doctor visit increases the rate at which they share decisions about screening for the disease with their doctor.

What This Study Found Patients invited to review information about prostate cancer and screening were more informed and more involved in screening decisions than other patients. Paper- and Web-based materials were equally effective in educating patients and involving them in the decision process. Exposure to these materials, however, did not promote a process in which patients and doctors truly shared control of decision making.

Implications

• Men who reviewed educational materials were more knowledgeable about prostate cancer and less likely to be screened for it.
• Providing patients with prostate cancer information can increase their involvement in decision making.