Acceptability and accessibility of using a peer-led WhatsApp group for sharing prostate cancer risk information: a pilot study for proof of concept [Abstract]

Fry, Sarah, Courtier, Nicholas ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6098-5882, Li, Shancang, Quinn-Scoggins, Harriet ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6136-070X, Theodorakopoulos, Georgios ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2701-7809 and Wakeham, Chloe 2026. Acceptability and accessibility of using a peer-led WhatsApp group for sharing prostate cancer risk information: a pilot study for proof of concept [Abstract]. Presented at: UK Society for Behavioral Medicine Annual Scientific Meeting, Sheffield, UK, 28-29 April 2026.

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Abstract

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common male cancer, and black men are among those at the highest risk1. Black men also have a greater burden of high grade disease at diagnosis and are most likely to present at a late stage, compared to non-black men2,3. Early detection of PCa remains a priority4 and in the UK a large multi-centre trial is underway to identify the safest most effective approach5. Historically black men have been underrepresented in research6 limiting applicability of findings. This presentation shares preliminary results of research examining the acceptability and accessibility of using peer-led WhatsApp groups to share PCa information among black men. Methods: An explanatory mixed-methods design was guided by the Sekon Framework of Acceptability7 and the eHEALS scale8. Community co-applicants led two culturally distinct WhatsApp groups, recruiting 25 participants to each group (N=50). Participants viewed prostate cancer risk information and completed a Likert-scale survey assessing acceptability and accessibility, followed by interviews or group discussions. Survey data were analysed for response patterns and correlation with eHEALS scores; qualitative data underwent thematic analysis using the acceptability framework7. Results: Twenty-one men completed the survey. Most participants (94%) perceived WhatsApp as an appropriate platform for sharing PCa information and raising awareness. Acceptability significantly correlated with eHEALS scores (r = .51–.64, all p < .01). Preliminary findings from 15 interviews and 2 group discussions indicate cultural differences in acceptance within the broader category of ‘Black men’. Conclusions and Implications: Early findings indicate that culturally tailored WhatsApp groups may be an effective approach to increasing PCa awareness and promoting research engagement among Black men. Future studies should focus on refining this communication strategy and integrating prostate cancer screening research to enhance inclusion and ensure relevance of findings.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item - unpublished
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Healthcare Sciences Schools > Medicine Schools > Computer Science & Informatics
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology R Medicine > RC Internal medicine > RC0254 Neoplasms. Tumors. Oncology (including Cancer)
Funders:	Cancer Research UK
Projects:	Acceptability and accessibility of using a peer-led WhatsApp group for sharing prostate cancer risk information: a pilot study for proof of concept.
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	30 April 2026
Date of Acceptance:	2 March 2023
Last Modified:	20 May 2026 21:17
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/186711

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