Literacy and race predictors in localized prostate cancer treatment choice

14541 Background: Studies have shown that African American populations have low rates of surgery, while similar assessments based on literacy skills have not been reported. Methods: Newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients (n = 311) were approached at 3 hospitals: private, county, and VA. Patients completed demographic and quality of life questionnaires as well as a literacy assessment at baseline, 3 month, and 12 month intervals. Results: Majority (60%) of African American patients were at low functional literacy. In multinomial regression analysis controlling for patient age, clinical stage at presentation, comorbidity, and treatment site, both African American race (RRR 2.4, 95% CI 1.35–5.91) and low literacy (6th grade reading level or below) were significantly and independently associated with a greater likelihood to receive external beam radiation treatment only in relation to other treatment options (AOR 4.26, 95% CI 2.34–7.75). Conclusions: In our inner city population of prostate cancer patients, white patients with high literacy skills opted for radical prostatectomy and persons with low literacy and/or African American race opted for radiation therapy. No significant financial relationships to disclose.