Twentieth International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations

Abstract

This paper presents the findings of a research project aimed at assessing knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors associated with breast cancer screening among Islamic/Muslim refugee women in Canada. Cancer represents a global health issue, and breast cancer is the second most common cancer and one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in the world. Women in Arabic-speaking countries appear to have the lowest rates of breast cancer screening among ethno-cultural groups living in Western countries. The project explored the following two research questions: 1) What are Islamic/Muslim refugee women’s perceptions of susceptibility and seriousness about breast cancer? 2) What are the barriers and benefits that may influence Islamic/Muslim refugee women’s participation in breast self-examination (BSE) and mammograms? A convenient sample composed of 75 Islamic/Muslim refugee women has been recruited to participate in the study through immigrant settlement agencies. A quantitatively-driven (QUANT-QUAL) mixed-method design is used to answer the research questions. Correlation and logistic regression analyses and 3 interviews with key informants were performed to answer the research questions. Participants’ mean age was 37.9 years. Severe gaps in knowledge were identified. Ninety-one percent of the women did not know how to perform breast self-examination (BSE), 68% did not perform regular BSE, 87% did not have regular mammograms, and 73% never had mammograms. Lack of knowledge, motivation, and characteristics of Arab culture create barriers to breast cancer screening. The inclusion of Muslim women in health promotion programs is recommended to avoid increased breast cancer morbidity in Canada.