Knowledge, Beliefs, Attitudes and Perceptions About Breast and Cervical Cancer and Screening Among Arabic Speaking Immigrant Women in Halifax, Nova Scotia
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Date
2010-04-14T14:13:00Z
Authors
Amin, Maha Abdelrahaman
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Abstract
Women of all races and ethnicities are at risk for breast cancer and cervical
cancer. These types of cancer have remained major public health issues across the
world. Although effective strategies for preventing breast and cervical cancer have
yet to be developed, following early detection practices can reduce the impact of the
disease and allow for a greater range of treatment options (American Cancer Society,
2005).
Informed by Black feminism and critical social theory relevant to Adult education
this qualitative study was conducted to explore the knowledge, beliefs, attitudes and
perceptions Arabic speaking immigrant women in Halifax, Nova Scotia towards
breast and cervical cancer among. The data were collected in two phases. The first
phase consisted of a survey in which 100 Arabic speaking women who are all married
and are 21 years and older participated. In phase two semi-structured interviews were
conducted with five of Arabic speaking women who were from a range of
backgrounds and age groups.
The study's findings reveal that there is a lack of knowledge about breast and
cervical cancer and screening for these cancers among Arabic speaking women.
Results indicated that the health care system in itself presents a number of challenges
for Arabic speaking women to obtain screening. Different factors influence Arabic
women's decisions about going or not going for screening and thus related to the
delay in seeking help for breast and cervical screening. These factors are related to
cultural or other factors such as lack of knowledge, fear, and social influence as well
as language. Strategies to reach Arabic speaking women include a variety of
recommended methods such as through educational sessions at clinics and/or in
community sites. This study will be helpful in planning and delivering screening
services to women in the Arabic community in Halifax and elsewhere.
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Keywords
Women, Arab -- Nova Scotia , Breast cancer , Cervical cancer