Prostatitis prevention in El empedrado neighborhood, Ecuador: educational and community strategies

Abstract

Prostatitis is a common prostate disease that significantly affects men's quality of life, particularly in vulnerable populations. This study aimed to implement prevention strategies based on an educational and community approach to reduce the incidence of prostatitis in men aged 40 to 80 in the El Empedrado neighborhood of Otavalo, Ecuador. The study involved a population of 50 men, using a structured questionnaire with 10 closed-ended questions, complemented by direct observation and educational activities. The results showed that 44% of respondents were unaware of prostate diseases, and 68% were unfamiliar with preventive measures; however, after implementing the strategies, the population became more aware, increasing their knowledge of the importance of medical check-ups, healthy habits, and prevention. Fifty-six percent of participants adopted practices such as regular physical activity, and 78% positively evaluated community talks as an educational tool. The conclusions highlight that the implemented strategies, based on education and awareness, helped reduce knowledge gaps and foster behavioral changes in the male population, contributing to the prevention of prostatitis and its complications. This educational-community approach proves to be effective and replicable in other communities with similar needs, improving access to information and promoting healthy lifestyles that positively impact public health.