Examining the motivations of men in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to participate in early screening for benign prostatic hyperplasia, a condition of significant public health concern.

Abstract

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is common among men over 40 and can significantly affect quality of life due to urinary symptoms and related complications. Early screening is crucial in preventing outcomes such as urinary retention and kidney injury. However, participation in screening remains low in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, largely due to limited awareness, cultural barriers, and access issues. This study aimed to assess knowledge, barriers, and the influence of health education on BPH screening among men in Riyadh. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2024 among 504 adult men in Riyadh, recruited through online platforms. Data were analyzed using SPSS to evaluate awareness, knowledge, screening behavior, and the impact of sociodemographic and educational factors. Of the 504 respondents, 60.1% had limited knowledge of BPH. While 54.8% recognized the importance of screening, only 25.6% had been screened. Significant differences in awareness and screening behavior were found to be associated with age, education, and prior medical exposure. The main barriers reported were lack of awareness (59.3%), fear or anxiety (34.1%), and logistical challenges (33.7%). Motivators included early detection (60.3%) and recommendations from healthcare providers (32.5%). Higher knowledge and screening rates were observed among those with higher education, previous screening experience, and exposure to awareness campaigns. There is a notable gap in BPH awareness and screening among men in Riyadh. Addressing modifiable barriers through culturally sensitive health education may improve screening uptake, especially among high-risk groups. Future efforts should focus on addressing psychological, cultural, and accessibility-related challenges.