A protocol on Perspectives and Health-Seeking Behaviours of men on Prostate Cancer in Rural South Africa: A Qualitative study of survivors and the general population

<ns3:p>Abstract* Background Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers among men in South Africa, particularly affecting those in rural and underserved communities. Despite growing awareness, late presentation and poor health-seeking behaviour remain significant challenges. Understanding the sociocultural factors that shape men’s experiences and decision-making regarding prostate cancer is essential for improving early detection and care. Objective This study explores the perspectives of prostate cancer survivors and men in the general population on prostate cancer, its prevention, treatment and related health-seeking behaviour in rural South African context. Methods This study adopts a qualitative design. Semi-structured interviews conducted with two purposefully sampled groups: prostate cancer survivors (n=15) and men from the general population with no known diagnosis (n=15), in the OR Tambo District OF THE eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Interviews will be conducted in isiXhosa (the local language), audio recorded, transcribes and translated into English. Data will be analysed thematically using NVivo software. Ethical approval has been obtained from the Walter Sisulu University Human Research Ethics Committee (014/2025), with additional permissions granted by the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of health and Nelson Mandela Academic hospital. Conclusion the findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of individual and community-level factors influencing prostate cancer health-seeking behaviour. This study will generate context-specific qualitative evidence to guide public health policy and prostate cancer awareness campaigns in rural African settings, male-friendly community interventions to promote early detection in rural areas, with broader implications for addressing health inequities in non-communicable disease care.</ns3:p>