Promoting health literacy about cancer screening among Muslim immigrants in Canada: Perspectives of Imams on the role they can play in community
Abstract
Immigrants tend to have lower screening rates than non-immigrants, and religious leaders may help close this gap. In particular, increased awareness of cancer and access to cancer screening is needed among immigrants facing barriers to care, such as Muslim immigrants in Alberta. Imams in Calgary were interviewed, and results found that most had cancer knowledge, but less knowledge about cancer screening. Imams were highly supportive of incorporating health messaging into their faith messaging, and using their role and status in the community to help increase screening rates and counter misunderstandings.
Notes
Future research / gaps identified: n/a
Key findings:
Collaborating with Imams and mosques can be an effective way to increase health knowledge, identify avenues for cancer screening promotion, and encourage cancer prevention in their communities.
Local Imams were highly supportive of incorporating health messaging into their faith messages
Cancer screening and cancer awareness initiatives need to be more culturally and religiously competent
Community organizations: n/a
Integration timeline: newcomers not defined
Key populations: Imams in Calgary, AB and the communities at their mosques
Key recommendations:
Involve Muslim organizations, Muslim leaders, and/or Imams at the policy level
Location: Calgary, AB
Open access: No