Prostate cancer is one on the most prevalent cancers in men, but no studies have been conducted to explore the information needs of black men diagnosed with prostate cancer in a developing country.

This study explored the specific information needs of black men diagnosed with prostate cancer in a South African public hospital, as previous evidence suggests that culture has been found to play a central role in patient’s information needs.

The study concluded that more information is needed regarding the implications of a prostate cancer diagnosis, the process involved, treatments, the reasons for these treatments and what is expected of patients diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Healthcare workers should consider the life-worlds of black men in the public healthcare system when attending to their information needs, and communities should be educated about cancer to avoid misconceptions.