Abstract 1310: Social determinants of migrant health factors impacting prostate cancer care and survivorship among sub-Saharan African immigrant men diagnosed with prostate cancer

Abstract

Abstract Background: Sub-Saharan African Immigrants (SSAI) represent one of the fastest-growing segments of the immigrant population in the United States (US). Between 2010 and 2018, the SSAI population in the US increased by 53%, significantly outpacing the 12% growth rate for the overall foreign-born population in the US during that time frame. Despite these growing numbers, little is published about the extent to which SSAIs adapt to health behaviors more common in the US or remain immersed in the values, beliefs and practices reflective of their country of origin. Importantly, no study has comprehensively examined the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) among this population relative to their migration experiences and their influence on health-seeking behaviors and decision-making regarding prostate cancer care and treatment options. Methods: This qualitative study employed grounded theory and the social determinants of migrant heath framework to better understand the needs of SSAI prostate cancer survivors in the United States and how to effectively support these survivors. In-depth interviews were conducted with 8 survivors who live in the states of Florida and Minnesota. Findings: Some participants reported limited access to care and financial challenges paying for drugs. In terms of coping with diagnosis and treatment, most of the participants relied on their faith, a positive outlook about survivorship and support of family members. Some participants relied on the coaching and support of a loved one who experienced prostate cancer in the past. Erectile dysfunction severely impacted the sexual life of most participants as they experienced difficulty getting an erection. Conclusion: Participants expressed the benefit of belonging to support groups with other survivors for social and emotional support. As the number of immigrants from sub-Saharan continue to rise, so too will the demand for culturally tailored care to address and reduce disparities in survivorship among this sub-population. Citation Format: Ernest Kaninjing, Gladys Asiedu, Kaitlin Van Voorhis, Mary Ellen Young, Ebenezer Erefah, Emmanuel Agboola, Folakemi Odedina, Roxana Dronca, Kimlin Ashing, Solomon Rotimi, Che Ngufor, Arnola Merriweather, John McCall, Anthony Hill. Social determinants of migrant health factors impacting prostate cancer care and survivorship among sub-Saharan African immigrant men diagnosed with prostate cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 1310.