Engaging Black Individuals and Community Members in Prostate Cancer Priority Setting Research Activities: An Application of the World Café Method

Purpose: Patient-centered and community-centered approaches are essential for understanding the perspectives and needs of historically excluded populations, such as Black communities, and for addressing research inequities. This study aimed to gather feedback on 4 patient-driven and community-driven projects, identifying barriers and facilitators to equitable care and key questions to guide future studies aimed at improving prostate cancer care for Black individuals. Methods: During a community symposium, we used the World Café method to facilitate dialogue among Black individuals with prostate cancer, community members, and our research team. The World Café included 4 discussion topics covering prostate cancer care, including carcinogenesis, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Participants rotated every 20 minutes to share their insights. We analyzed the data thematically, using both inductive methods to uncover new patterns and deductive coding based on a framework addressing structural and social determinants of equity. Results: The World Café had 20 participants, mostly Black men with a history of prostate cancer (75%). Barriers to participation in genetic studies, screening, and treatment included limited access to information, mistrust of healthcare providers, reluctance toward invasive procedures, and lack of social and emotional support. Concerns about sexual, psychological, and mental well-being were also cited as barriers to research and care. In addition, fears related to diagnosis and prognosis contributed to avoidance of research or care. Conclusions: The World Café effectively engaged Black prostate cancer patients and caregivers, offering insights into factors contributing to exclusion from research and treatment. We recommend this approach for future community-partnered research.