Perceptions of breast cancer screening programs and breast health among immigrant women: A qualitative study in Alberta
Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine how women who have immigrated from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region perceive breast cancer risk and screening in Canada and how they approach breast health, and to explore barriers to breast cancer screening in this population. Participants were women who were born in MENA countries (e.g., Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, and Syria) and had immigrated to Canada less than 5 years prior to study recruitment and lived in Edmonton, Alta. Six focus groups were conducted over a 6-week period in July and August 2018 with 6 participants in each group (N=36); results were analyzed thematically. Findings indicated participants have limited knowledge about breast cancer screening practices in Alberta and that multiple barriers to screening remain. This study can help inform the development of culturally appropriate interventions to overcome barriers and to motivate women from MENA countries to use breast cancer screening.
Notes
Key populations: immigrant women from the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa)
Open access: No
Location: Edmonton, AB
Key findings:
Themes included:
1) Limited knowledge about breast health, cancer risk, and screening services in Canada.
2) Barriers to maintaining breast health and to screening included: language barriers, lack of opportunities to gain health knowledge, male healthcare providers, and cultural stigma related to breasts and cancer.
Key recommendations:
1) Develop programs and opportunities for immigrant women to gain health literacy related to breast cancer and screenings.
2) Implement systemic changes to make breast cancer health services more culturally-safe and religion-appropriate for Arab Muslim women.
Future research / gaps identified: not stated
Integration timeline: less than 5 years in Canada
Community organizations: n/a