Knowledge of prostate health and food choice influence on the risk of prostate disorders among Ghanaian men

Understanding prostate health is vital for preventing, managing, and treating prostate disorders. Prostate disorder is a significant health challenge among men, and if not detected early, could lead to complications like cancer and death. Thus, knowledge of prostate health is essential for defining critical areas of intervention among men. This was a cross-sectional survey conducted among 894 Ghanaian men aged 40 to 70+ to assess their knowledge of prostate health and its influence on their food choices. The study was conducted in Greater Accra, Bono, and Northern Regions of Ghana. A structured questionnaire was employed to collect data on socio-demographics, knowledge of prostate health and consumption of foods related to prostate health. Two categories of foods, relating to prostate health were considered for the study: protective foods (fruits and vegetables) and high-risk foods (alcohol, meat, and meat products). Knowledge level scores were computed from the marks scored by participants on prostate health risk factors, causes, signs, symptoms and treatment, and nutrition and prostate health. Food choices were assessed based on the frequency of protective foods and high-risk foods intake. Associations between socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge level of prostate health, and food choices were examined using bivariate analysis, and multivariate regression analysis was conducted for possible predictors. The mean age of participants was 51.44 ±7.98. More than half of the participants (62.5%, n=559) had a high knowledge of prostate health. Participants with a family history of prostate disorders were approximately two times [OR (odds ratio) =1.973, p=0.041] more likely to have a high knowledge level of prostate health than those with no family history. Similarly, those diagnosed with prostate disorders were three times (OR = 2.736, p<0.001) more likely to have a high knowledge level of prostate health than those who have never been diagnosed of any prostate disorder. Generally, participants consumed protective and high-risk foods related to prostate health. Participants with increased knowledge of prostate health were three times (OR=2.531, p<0.001) more likely to consume protective foods. Knowledge about prostate health through experience positively impacts the consumption of fruits and vegetables. Efforts in Ghana to improve prostate health should include education on protective food choices to promote prostate health.