Barriers and Facilitators of Breast Cancer Screening amongst Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Women in South Western Sydney: A Qualitative Explorative Study

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer amongst Australian women and the second most common cause of cancer mortality. Despite the proven effectiveness of early intervention, screening rates remain subpar across many regions in New South Wales (NSW). Screening rates are particularly low within the culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) area of South Western Sydney (SWS). The objective of this study was to qualitatively explore barriers and facilitators to breast screening from the perspectives of CALD women from SWS. CALD women aged ≥40 who resided in SWS were invited to participate in a semi-structured interview to explore barriers and facilitators to breast cancer screening. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically to identify recurring patterns in the data. Sixteen women from CALD backgrounds participated. Women in this study reported absence of symptoms, fatalistic beliefs and embarrassment during the procedure to be the primary reasons for reluctance to screen. Lack of general practitioner (GP) endorsement, transport issues and pain associated with the procedure were also reported as additional barriers to screening. Common facilitators to screening included encouragement from family and friends, family history of cancer and media adverts. CALD women have distinctive barriers to mammography, which lead to poor breast screening participation rates. Opportunistic health promotion in this area is warranted and may lead to better health outcomes amongst this population.