Population-based screening of prostate cancer among low-income men in north of Iran, Guilan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61882/MEJNCD.1.1.7Keywords:
Prostatic neoplasms , Prostate-specific antigen , Digital rectal examination , Risk factorsAbstract
Background: Prostate cancer (PC) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among men worldwide, with growing incidence in low- and middle-income countries. Data on population based screening in economically disadvantaged groups in Iran remain scarce. This study evaluated the prevalence of abnormal prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, digital rectal examination (DRE) findings, and associated risk factors among low-income men in northern
Iran.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 men enrolled through the patronage of a local relief foundation in Guilan Province, Iran. Eligibility was based on age and family history of PC. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and urinary symptoms were
collected via structured questionnaire. All participants underwent DRE performed by a urologist and serum PSA testing. Abnormal PSA was defined as >3 ng/mL. Statistical analyses were performed using chi-square test and one-way ANOVA.
Results: The mean age of participants was 63.7 ± 8.8 years, with 61.7% aged ≥60 years.Abnormal PSA was detected in 15.0% of men, while 54.0% presented with abnormal DRE findings. The most frequent urinary symptoms were nocturia and poor or interrupted urine flow (43.0% each). Older age and family history of PC in first-degree relatives were significantly associated with abnormal PSA and DRE abnormalities (p<0.05), whereas other sociodemographic and lifestyle factors showed no significant associations (p>0.05).
Conclusion: A substantial burden of prostate abnormalities was observed among low-income men in northern Iran. These findings highlight the importance of targeted, resource-sensitive screening strategies to reduce disparities in prostate cancer detection and outcomes.
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