Examining the Impact of Prostate Cancer in Men Undergoing Finger-Guided Prostate Biopsy at the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
Keywords:
Prostate cancer, finger-guided biopsy, Zambia, men’s health, diagnosis, cancer burdenAbstract
Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among men worldwide, with an increasing burden in sub-Saharan Africa. In Zambia, late presentation and limited diagnostic resources contribute to poor outcomes. This study examine the impact of prostate cancer among men undergoing finger-guided prostate biopsy at the University Teaching Hospital. The problem addressed is the continued reliance on finger-guided biopsy techniques in resource-limited settings and the implications this has for diagnosis, disease staging, and patient outcomes. The aim of the study is to evaluate clinical outcomes, diagnostic effectiveness, and the broader impact of prostate cancer on patients undergoing this procedure. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including clinical record reviews, patient interviews, and outcome analysis. Findings indicate a high prevalence of advanced-stage prostate cancer at diagnosis, significant physical and psychological burden on patients, and limitations in diagnostic precision associated with finger-guided biopsy. The study contributes to ongoing discussions on improving cancer diagnosis and management in low-resource settings and recommends investment in advanced diagnostic technologies and early screening programs.
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