Background: Prostate cancer is a major cause of cancer death in
Nigerian men. Attempts to reduce mortality from prostate cancer have
focused mainly on early detection of the disease by the use of PSA
testing. As a result of the increased incidence of prostate cancer in
Nigeria despite the widespread availability of testing facilities, it
became pertinent to understand the salient factors that prompt Nigerian
men to go for prostate cancer testing. Objective: This study explores
the factors that influence a group of Nigerian men\u2019s decision to
go for Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) testing. Methods: Following
ethical approval, semi structured interviews were conducted with a
group of 10 men who had PSA test following consultation with their
doctor with signs and symptoms at the University of Benin Teaching
Hospital from July to August, 2010. Interview transcripts were analysed
by employing steps proposed by Collaizi (1978). Results: Five themes
were identified: the symptoms experienced, the influence of friends and
relatives, older age associated with increased awareness, accessibility
to testing services and the knowledge of the PSA test. Conclusion: The
study revealed that there continues to be a considerable lack of
awareness and knowledge about prostate cancer and screening