Masculinity stigma and metastatic prostate cancer: A review with a focus on Latin America.

• This systematic review represents a significant contribution to the field as it is the first comprehensive review in Latin America that addresses the influence of masculinity stigma on the diagnosis and treatment of metastatic prostate cancer. • One of the unique strengths of this review is its ability to gather and synthesize dozens of studies that were previously published only in Portuguese or Spanish, effectively summarizing and connecting these findings with the international literature. • It highlights the impact of cultural beliefs, gender norms, and social expectations on the stigmatization of prostate cancer, particularly related to notions of masculinity such as strength and invulnerability. • The review addresses the influence of machismo culture and religious/spiritual beliefs, which further complicate the challenges faced by individuals with prostate cancer and hinder open communication about the disease. • By identifying these sociocultural factors, the review contributes to a better understanding of the experiences and obstacles encountered by prostate cancer patients in Latin America. This review examines the impact of masculinity stigma on the diagnosis and treatment of metastatic prostate cancer, particularly in Latin America. It aims to provide insights into the influence of masculinity stigma on patient outcomes and inform strategies to address this issue. A comprehensive search was conducted in electronic databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL and LILACS) using relevant keywords and controlled vocabulary related to metastatic prostate cancer, masculinity, stigma, diagnosis, and treatment up to April 2023. The search strategy was developed in consultation with a medical librarian to ensure its comprehensiveness. Thirty-three studies that investigate the role of masculinity stigma in the diagnosis and treatment of metastatic prostate cancer were included. Our findings highlight the unique sociocultural influences in Latin America that shape prostate cancer stigma. It emphasizes the impact of cultural beliefs, gender norms, and social expectations on stigma. Notions of masculinity, such as strength and invulnerability, contribute to the stigmatization of prostate cancer. Machismo culture and religious/spiritual beliefs further compound the challenges and hinder open communication about the disease. Cultural taboos, limited awareness, and misconceptions perpetuate the stigma. These sociocultural factors shape the experiences and challenges faced by individuals with and at risk of prostate cancer in Latin America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]