Associations between religion-related factors and cervical cancer screening among Muslims in greater chicago

Cervical cancer screening and vaccination acceptability and attitudes among Arab American women in Southeastern Michigan: a qualitative study

Among Arab-American women in Michigan, rates of cervical cancer screening are lower than those in non-Hispanic White and Black women in the state. A deep understanding of the Arab community's perspective on cervical cancer screening is needed to address the disparity in rates across populations in Michigan. Arab and Chaldean women across Michigan were invited to participate in Zoom-based focus groups to understand the attitudes, acceptability, and barriers of cervical cancer screening among this population. Four focus groups with a total of 19 women aged 30 to 61 were conducted. The focus groups were conducted in English, Arabic, or both languages. The guided discussion was focused on knowledge of cervical cancer and Human papillomavirus (HPV) and its transmission, attitudes towards HPV vaccination, and attitudes towards cervical cancer screening. HPV self-sampling as an alternative to traditional provider-based screening was specifically discussed as this has been proposed as a way to increase screening in hard-to-reach populations. The conversations revealed insights related to barriers at the individual and community levels for screening and vaccination, attitudes towards preventive health care including screening, a need for accessible women's health literature, and health education. The women also discussed vaccine hesitancy related to HPV and COVID-19, suggesting a need for targeted community interventions.

Prevalence and trends of cervical cancer screening among women in Fiji from 2014 to 2018

Introduction

Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer in women both in developed and developing countries. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of cervical cancer and the trends of cervical cancer screening among women who had cervical cancer screening in Suva, Fiji between 2014 and 2018.

Materials and method

This study applied a 5-year retrospective electronic chart review of data from all women attending the Women's Wellness Clinic (WWC) in Suva, Fiji. The women who were selected for this study and screened for cervical cancer were Fijian citizens above 18 years of age and were registered in 2014-2018. A data collection form was used to collect data. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24; p <0.05 % was considered as the level of significance.

Results

Among the 39,579 women who attended WWC for other family planning services, 12,074 women screened for cervical cancer with a prevalence of 30.5 %. The overall mean age for women screened for cervical cancer was 37.6 (SD ± 11.2). Two-thirds (76.4 %) of the women screened for cervical cancer were less than 46 years of age and 53.9 % were I-taukei. The number of women who came for Pap smear increased in 2015, however, a slight decline was observed in 2016 which was later improved to 35.1 % in 2018. Malignancy was more common in the age range of 42-49 respectively. In this study, women of 46 years and above had an OR of 0.51 (95 % CI: 0.36, 0.72), other ethnicity OR was 1.73 (95 % CI: 1.27, 2.35), and the Muslim religion OR recorded was 1.44 (95 % CI: 1.03, 2.01) which was comparatively considered a high-risk group. Women who are widowed 1.57 (95 % CI: 0.798, 3.11), single 1.29 (95 % CI: 0.87, 1.92) or divorced 1.08 (95 % CI: 0.59, 1.99), employed 1.01 (95 % CI: 0.83, 1.24) and are living in rural areas 1.19 (95 % CI: 0.82, 1.73) are also associated with higher odds of having abnormal results.

Conclusion

Cervical cancer is listed as the first and most common type of cancer in women which is noticeably increasing in Fiji. Even though cervical cancer screening has improved over the years, adequate surveillance systems and ongoing programs should be designed and implemented to increase awareness and monitor the trend of cervical cancer screening in order to reduce cervical cancer prevalence and mortality rates.

Determination of Opinions on HPV Infection and HPV Vaccine among Nursing Students by Focus Group Discussion

Purpose: This study aimed to determine nursing students' opinions about human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and HPV vaccine. Methods: This is a qualitative focus group discussion study, in which a state university in Western Turkey, undergraduate nursing students are recruited through purposive sampling. The research data were collected on an online platform with the focus group interview method by using the Participant Information Form and Semistructured Interview Form. Results: Three main themes (HPV infection/vaccine perception, severity perception, and suggestions and requests/facilitators) and eight subthemes were developed based on the thematic analysis of the research findings. Conclusions: According to the findings, it was concluded that nursing students' opinions on HPV infection and HPV vaccine were affected by factors related to cultural, religious, and sexual behaviors. Based on study results, it is suggested to organize national cervical screening programs to increase public's knowledge and awareness on the subject in accordance with the sociocultural norms of the society with the agreement and cooperation of educated health service providers, policy makers, and educators.

Testing a faith-placed education intervention for bowel cancer screening in Muslim communities using a two-group non-randomised mixed-methods approach: Feasibility study protocol

BACKGROUND

Inequalities exist in uptake of bowel cancer screening in England with low uptake in areas with high deprivation and amongst certain ethnic and religious groups. Individuals from these groups are more likely to receive a late diagnosis of bowel cancer. Uptake in Muslim communities, for example, has been shown to be lower than in the general population. Culturally adapted interventions are needed to address these inequalities. This feasibility study aims to assess the acceptability and accessibility of an educational faith-placed bowel cancer screening intervention in the East of England, alongside its impact on bowel screening uptake. It was developed by the British Islamic Medical Association in partnership with community stakeholders and professionals.

METHODS

Ethical approval was granted on the 27 October 2021, REC reference number 21/EE/0231. A two-group non-randomised feasibility mixed methods study will be conducted, using surveys, focus groups and semi-structured interviews. Participants eligible for bowel screening will be recruited through local mosques and community venues. We aim to recruit 100 participants to the intervention group and 150 to the comparison group (not receiving the intervention). Intervention group participants will complete a survey at baseline, post-intervention and at six-month follow up. Comparison group participants will complete a survey at baseline and at six-month follow up. Outcomes will include: intention to take up screening; actual screening uptake; knowledge, attitudes, barriers and facilitators towards screening. Regional screening hub records will be used to ascertain actual screening uptake at six-month follow-up. Quantitative survey data will be summarised using descriptive statistics (e.g., proportion), and exploratory univariate analysis will be undertaken (e.g., chi-squared test). Two focus group interviews will be conducted with intervention group participants (with up to 16 participants). Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with 10 clinicians delivering the intervention to explore the acceptability of the intervention, training, and delivery. All qualitative data will be subject to a general inductive analysis.

DISCUSSION

The findings will inform how faith-placed interventions can be implemented to increase uptake of bowel cancer screening, and potentially other health promotion programmes, to address health inequalities in ethnically diverse communities in England.

Improving cervical cancer continuum of care towards elimination in Ethiopia: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is the second-leading cause of death among all cancers in Ethiopia. Ethiopia plans to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem by 2030, following the World Health Organization's call for action. A scoping review was conducted on the status of the cervical cancer continuum towards elimination in Ethiopia.

METHODS

We searched articles in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. All studies conducted on cervical cancer in Ethiopia, from first date of publication to March 15, 2023, type of article, or language of publication, were included. However, conference abstracts, commentaries, and letters to the editors were excluded. We used EndNote X9 software to merge articles from different databases and automatically remove duplicates. Screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts was performed independently by two co-authors. The cancer care continuum was employed as a framework to guide data synthesis and present the findings.

RESULTS

Of the 569 retrieved articles, 159 were included in the review. They found that most of the articles focused on knowledge, attitude, and practice. However, there were few studies on health-seeking behavior, perception and acceptability of cervical cancer services, as well as the availability and readiness of a screening program. The review identified inadequate knowledge, attitude, and perception about cervical cancer, and highlighted that screening for cervical cancer is not widely utilized in Ethiopia. Knowledge, attitude, education status, and income were repeatedly reported as precursors influencing cervical cancer screening. Most studies concluded that there is a high prevalence of precancerous lesions and cervical cancer, as well as high mortality rates or short survival times. The review also identified significant heterogeneity in findings across time and geographic settings within each component of the cancer care continuum.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, there is inadequate knowledge, perception, health-seeking behavior, screening, and treatment services, indicating that the country is falling behind its targets in eliminating cervical cancer, despite the availability of effective interventions and tools. We argue that implementation research is necessary to identify implementation issues, challenges, and strategies to scale up both primary and secondary prevention services. By doing so, Ethiopia can address cervical cancer as a public health problem and work towards its elimination.

Perceptions of US-Based Muslim Patients of Their Dermatology Care

Importance

Cultural humility training is of growing interest, yet the religious and cultural accommodations of Muslim patients in dermatology have not been studied.

Objective

To explore the perceptions of Muslim patients of their dermatology care.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This qualitative mixed-methods study, consisting of surveys and semistructured interviews, recruited participants from 2 clinical sites within a large academic health care system in California. Participants were adult, English-speaking, Muslim patients who were evaluated at least once by a medical or surgical dermatologist between January 2022 and January 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

A survey obtained the following data: demographics, religious practices pertinent to dermatology care, and experiences of bias outside and inside the dermatology clinic. Semistructured interviews covered topics related to positive and negative experiences in the dermatology clinic, accommodation of cultural and religious needs in dermatology, and future interventions.

Results

A total of 21 patients (mean [SD] age, 36.4 [11.6] years; range, 26-71 years) participated in the study: 5 male individuals (24%) and 16 female individuals (76%), including 10 female individuals who wore hijab. Eleven participants identified as Middle Eastern (52%), 8 as South Asian (38%), 1 as North African (5%), and 1 as Pacific Islander (5%). Survey results showed variations in the impact of Islamic practices on dermatology care. Interviews showed that Muslim participants did not perceive dermatology care as a priority and expressed interest in community events focused on general dermatology education. They also experienced stigmatization of their skin disease and cosmetic care. Prior experiences with Islamophobia and colorism hindered the Muslim patient-dermatologist relationship and disclosure of the need for accommodations. There were instances when participants experienced bias and poor cultural humility from dermatologists. Finally, Muslim participants had unique religious and cultural needs pertinent to their care, including clinician gender concordance, medication timing adjustment while fasting, and halal medication ingredients.

Conclusions and Relevance

This qualitative mixed-methods study explored the experiences of Muslim patients in dermatology in the US. Recommendations supported by this study include incorporating religion into cultural humility training, increasing diversity in the dermatology workforce, implementing policies for clearer medication labeling, supporting dermatology research in subpopulations of Muslim individuals in the US, and partnering with community organizations for dermatology education.

Towards a better understanding between non-Muslim primary care clinicians and Muslim patients: A literature review intended to reduce health care inequities in Muslim patients

Although Muslims are a growing population within many non-Muslim countries, there are insufficient Muslim clinicians to care for them. Studies have shown that non-Muslim clinicians have limited knowledge and understanding of Islamic practices affecting health, which may lead to disparities in the quality of healthcare delivery and outcomes when caring for Muslim patients. Muslims come from many different cultures and ethnicities and have variations in their beliefs and practices. This literature review provides some insights which may strengthen therapeutic bonds between non-Muslim clinicians and their Muslim patients resulting in improved holistic, patient-centered care in the areas of cancer screening, mental health, nutrition, and pharmacotherapy. Additionally, this review informs clinicians about the Islamic perspective on childbirth, end of life issues, travel for Islamic pilgrimage, and fasting during the month of Ramadan. Literature was sourced by a comprehensive search in PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL along with hand screening of citations. Title and abstract screening followed by full-text screening excluded studies including less than 30% Muslim participants, protocols, or reporting results deemed irrelevant to primary care. 115 papers were selected for inclusion in the literature review. These were grouped into the themes of general spirituality, which were discussed in the Introduction, and Islam and health, Social etiquette, Cancer screening, Diet, Medications and their alternatives, Ramadan, Hajj, Mental health, Organ donation and transplants, and End of life. Summarizing the findings of the review, we conclude that health inequities affecting Muslim patients can be addressed at least in part by improved cultural competency in non-Muslim clinicians, as well as further research into this area.

Barriers to cervical cancer screening faced by immigrant Muslim women: a systematic scoping review

BACKGROUND

Uptake for cervical cancer screening (CCS) is extremely low among immigrant women, particularly Muslim women, because of barriers related to religious values, beliefs, and fatalism. This scoping review aimed to summarize and analyze the findings of previous studies regarding perceived barriers to CCS among Muslim immigrant women.

METHODS

A search of electronic databases of peer-reviewed articles, including MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed, and Scopus was conducted. The following criteria were used for the selection of the articles: (a) the study population consisted of immigrant Muslim women, (b) CCS barriers were the main focus of the study, (c) the articles were original research articles, (d) the research was conducted within the last 10 years, and (d) the study was reported in English language.

RESULTS

Barriers included sociodemographic factors, economic, language, cognitive, and emotional reactions. The healthcare system was classified as a community barrier, whereas culture and religion were categorized as social barriers. Beliefs that becoming ill and dying is the will of Allah and that health problems are a punishment from God were considered to be major barriers to CCS among immigrant Muslim women.

CONCLUSION

Access to health service centers and CCS among Muslim immigrant women is challenging. Information dissemination by health care workers is needed to increase awareness of CCS and access to CCS service points among immigrant Muslim women. Physician recommendations to attend CCS also play an important role.

Implementation of a Cervical Cancer Screening Intervention for Under- or Never-Screened Women in Ontario, Canada: Understanding the Acceptability of HPV Self-Sampling

With appropriate screening, cervical cancer can be prevented. In Ontario, Canada, some groups of women have low screening rates. South Asian, Middle Eastern and North African women are particularly at risk of under-screening. Currently, cytology-based screening is used in Ontario, although the growing evidence and adoption of HPV testing for cervical screening has encouraged many jurisdictions around the world to move towards HPV testing, with the option of self-sampling. We conducted an intervention beginning in June 2018, where we recruited over 100 under- or never-screened (UNS) women who identify as South or West Asian, Middle Eastern or North African from the Greater Toronto Area, to understand the uptake and acceptability of HPV self-sampling as an alternative to a Pap test. Participants self-selected if they tried the kit or not and completed both quantitative and qualitative research activities. This paper focuses on the qualitative arm of the study, where follow-ups and five focus groups were conducted with those who tried the kit (three groups) and those who did not (two groups), as well as eight key informant interviews with community champions and others who were involved in our recruitment. We used the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to guide our data collection and analysis. Major themes around convenience, privacy and comfort came from the data as important drivers of the uptake of the intervention. The role of community champions and peers in engaging and educating UNS women, as well as having self-confidence to collect the sample, also came out as factors impacting uptake and plans for continued use. Overall, the intervention showed that HPV self-sampling is an acceptable alternative to a Pap test for some but not all UNS women in Ontario.

Navigating Cultural Diversity in the Selection of Cardiovascular Device Treatments: A Comprehensive Review

In cardiology, patients' cultural beliefs, linguistic differences, lack of knowledge, and socioeconomic status can create barriers to choosing device treatment. To address this issue, we conducted a thorough literature review using online databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center's research portal. Our review found that cultural, religious, and linguistic barriers can contribute to patients' apprehension and reservations about device placement. These barriers can also impact patients' adherence to treatment and clinical outcomes. Patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may have difficulty accessing and affording device-based treatments. Additionally, fear and inadequate understanding of surgical procedures can deter patients from accepting device treatment in cardiology. To overcome these cultural barriers, healthcare providers must raise awareness about the benefits of device treatment and provide better training to overcome these challenges. It is crucial to address the unique needs of patients from different cultural backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses to ensure they receive the care they need.

Primary care Providers' approaches to cervical cancer screening in Muslim females

The utilization of the Papanicolaou (Pap) test and the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has significantly decreased rates of cervical cancer and related mortality. Disparities in receiving these preventive screenings are scarcely studied in Muslim females. Our study explores primary care providers' (PCP) approaches to cervical cancer screening in Muslim females. We created a cross-sectional Qualtrics survey using convenience sampling of PCPs who perform Pap tests in central Ohio. Recruitment emails were disseminated via departmental email listservs. We had 200 analyzable responses and 78% of respondents reported having Muslim patients. Bivariate analysis was used to identify predictors of providers' approaches. Providers younger than 35 years obtained a sexual history from Muslim females less frequently, family medicine providers were more likely to obtain a sexual history from Muslim females, and gynecologists were more likely to offer the HPV vaccine to Muslim females. Providers who counseled patients about Pap tests (P<0.001) and HPV modes of transmission (P<0.004) were more likely to offer cervical cancer screening for Muslim females. Our findings suggested that providers' age and specialty may be predictors of proactive cervical cancer screening and prevention in Muslim females and that there is a gap between current guidelines and preventive clinical practices regarding the HPV vaccine and transmission counseling.

Reach and effectiveness of an HPV self-sampling intervention for cervical screening amongst under- or never-screened women in Toronto, Ontario Canada

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable with appropriate and timely screening. In Ontario, Canada, South Asian, Middle Eastern and North African women have some of the lowest rates of screening and a suggested higher burden of cervical cancer. With increasing international evidence and adoption of HPV testing, many screening programs are making the move away from Pap tests and towards HPV testing with the option of HPV self-sampling seeming promising for under- or never-screened (UNS) women. Our study aimed to understand the uptake and acceptability of an HPV self-sampling intervention amongst these disproportionately UNS women in Peel region and surrounding areas in Ontario.

METHODS

A community -based mixed methods approach guided by the RE-AIM framework was used to recruit approximately 100 UNS racialized immigrant women aged 30-69, during the period of June 2018 to December 2019. The main recruitment strategy included community champions (i.e. trusted female members of communities) to engage people in our selected areas in Peel Region. Participants completed a study questionnaire about their knowledge, attitudes and practices around cervical cancer screening, self-selected whether to use the HPV self-sampling device and completed follow-up questions either about their experience with self-sampling or going to get a Pap test.

RESULTS

In total, 108 women participated in the study, with 69 opting to do self-sampling and 39 not. The majority of women followed through and used the device (n = 61) and found it 'user friendly.' The experience of some participants suggests that clearer instructions and/or more support once at home is needed. Survey and follow-up data suggest that privacy and comfort are common barriers for UNS women, and that self-sampling begins to address these concerns. Across both groups addressing misinformation and misconceptions is needed to convince some UNS women to be screened. Family, friends and peers also seemed to play a role in the decision-making process.

CONCLUSIONS

HPV self-sampling is viewed as an acceptable alternative to a Pap test for cervical screening, by some but not all UNS women. This method begins to address some of the barriers that often prevent women from being screened and is already being offered in some jurisdictions as an alternative to clinical cervical cancer screening.

Barriers to uptake of cervical cancer screening services in low-and-middle-income countries: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs) bear a disproportionate burden of cervical cancer mortality. We aimed to identify what is currently known about barriers to cervical cancer screening among women in LMICs and propose remedial actions.

DESIGN

This was a systematic review using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms in Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. We also contacted medical associations and universities for grey literature and checked reference lists of eligible articles for relevant literature published in English between 2010 and 2020. We summarized the findings using a descriptive narrative based on themes identified as levels of the social ecological model.

SETTING

We included studies conducted in LMICs published in English between 2010 and 2020.

PARTICIPANTS

We included studies that reported on barriers to cervical cancer screening among women 15 years and older, eligible for cervical cancer screening.

RESULTS

Seventy-nine articles met the inclusion criteria. We identified individual, cultural/traditional and religious, societal, health system, and structural barriers to screening. Lack of knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer in general and of screening were the most frequent individual level barriers. Cultural/traditional and religious barriers included prohibition of screening and unsupportive partners and families, while social barriers were largely driven by community misconceptions. Health system barriers included policy and programmatic factors, and structural barriers were related to geography, education and cost. Underlying reasons for these barriers included limited information about cervical cancer and screening as a preventive strategy, poorly resourced health systems that lacked policies or implemented them poorly, generalised limited access to health services, and gender norms that deprioritize the health needs of women.

CONCLUSION

A wide range of barriers to screening were identified across most LMICs. Urgent implementation of clear policies supported by health system capacity for implementation, community wide advocacy and information dissemination, strengthening of policies that support women's health and gender equality, and targeted further research are needed to effectively address the inequitable burden of cervical cancer in LMICs.

Lower Compliance with Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines Among Vegetarians in North America

Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable through regular screening and follow-up. However, the utilization of cervical cancer screening may vary widely based on individual lifestyles. The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in the adherence to cervical cancer screening guidelines in various dietary groups. Our study included 21,376 women from the United States and Canada, aged 30-69 from the Adventist Health Study-2, a large population-based prospective cohort study. Modified Poisson regression with robust variance estimation was used to determine the prevalence ratios of cervical cancer screening behavior in participants following five different dietary patterns (non-vegetarians, semi-vegetarians, pesco-vegetarians, lacto-ovo-vegetarians, and vegans). All analyses were adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, marital status, education, personal income, body mass index, smoking, alcohol use, exercise, and family history of all female cancer. Vegetarians, in general, had similar screening prevalence as non-vegetarians. However, vegans were 16% less likely to have had a Pap test compared to non-vegetarians (prevalence ratio (PR) = 0.84, 95% confidence interval 0.81-0.86). Women who were younger, Black, married, more educated, had a family history of all female cancer, had a higher income, and exercise reported higher compliance to a Pap test. It remains to be seen whether vegan women in Adventist Health-2 experience a higher incidence of cervical cancer or are diagnosed at a later stage compared to non-vegetarians.

Cultural, Religious and Socio-Ethical Misconceptions among Muslim Women towards Breast Cancer Screening: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer worldwide. With an estimated 685,000 deaths, female breast cancer was the fifth leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, accounting for 6.9% of all cancer deaths. Previous studies have shown that late detection and delayed diagnosis are associated with advanced-stage breast cancer and poor survival. Factors contributing to non-adherence to breast cancer screening among women were elicited from previous studies. However, few studies have focused on the Muslim community, particularly Muslim women. As such, this systematic review aims to fill this gap by collecting information from studies conducted globally over the past ten years that examined cultural, religious and socio-ethical misconceptions about breast cancer screening among Muslim women.

METHODS

Following the PRISMA guidelines, literature searches were conducted systematically through various databases including PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Oxford Academic Journals. Article identification, screening steps and eligibility measures were meticulously performed throughout the review.

RESULTS

A total of 22 papers were appraised and included in this review. Five main themes were generated which were socio-ethical misconceptions, cultural and religious beliefs, cultural and religious barriers, stigmatization and fear of breast cancer impact. Eight sub-themes and 14 sub sub-themes were further elicited from the main themes.

CONCLUSION

Muslim women have socio-ethical, cultural and religious misconceptions on what constitutes health and practices as well as on the nature and etiology of BC. Cultural barriers and religious values of Muslim women were indicated to influence their health behaviors such as upholding their modesty when choosing health interventions. BC stigma and fear were also found to be key sources of psychological distress that discouraged Muslim women from undergoing BC screening. The study suggests the implementation of holistic effort in educating Muslim women to increase BC screening rate.

Cultural, Religious and Socio-Ethical Misconceptions among Muslim Women towards Breast Cancer Screening: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer worldwide. With an estimated 685,000 deaths, female breast cancer was the fifth leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, accounting for 6.9% of all cancer deaths. Previous studies have shown that late detection and delayed diagnosis are associated with advanced-stage breast cancer and poor survival. Factors contributing to non-adherence to breast cancer screening among women were elicited from previous studies. However, few studies have focused on the Muslim community, particularly Muslim women. As such, this systematic review aims to fill this gap by collecting information from studies conducted globally over the past ten years that examined cultural, religious and socio-ethical misconceptions about breast cancer screening among Muslim women.

METHODS

Following the PRISMA guidelines, literature searches were conducted systematically through various databases including PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Oxford Academic Journals. Article identification, screening steps and eligibility measures were meticulously performed throughout the review.

RESULTS

A total of 22 papers were appraised and included in this review. Five main themes were generated which were socio-ethical misconceptions, cultural and religious beliefs, cultural and religious barriers, stigmatization and fear of breast cancer impact. Eight sub-themes and 14 sub sub-themes were further elicited from the main themes.

CONCLUSION

Muslim women have socio-ethical, cultural and religious misconceptions on what constitutes health and practices as well as on the nature and etiology of BC. Cultural barriers and religious values of Muslim women were indicated to influence their health behaviors such as upholding their modesty when choosing health interventions. BC stigma and fear were also found to be key sources of psychological distress that discouraged Muslim women from undergoing BC screening. The study suggests the implementation of holistic effort in educating Muslim women to increase BC screening rate.

A systematic search and review of the discrimination in health care measure, and its adaptations

BACKGROUND

Discrimination occurs in health care settings contributing to health inequities. Yet guidance on how best to measure discrimination in health care is still limited.

OBJECTIVES

We sought to (1) identify and describe the characteristics of published studies that used the Discrimination in Health Care Measure, a scale first published in 2001; (2) review how the measure has been used or adapted and summarize the measure's published psychometric properties and its variations; and (3) summarize associations between the measure and health-related variables.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search and review of the measure by searching PsycINFO, PubMed, Sociological Abstracts, and Web of Science from January 1, 2001 through January 31, 2017. We screened 260 unique articles, identified 22 eligible articles, and completed a narrative synthesis.

RESULTS

Most studies measured race or ethnicity-based discrimination. All studies made minor revisions to the measure, and most reported high reliabilities. Discrimination in health care, using this measure, was associated with adverse health outcomes.

DISCUSSION AND PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Study results indicate that the measure is easy to use and adapt. Researchers should consider using the Discrimination in Health Care Measure when designing studies that will examine individuals' discriminatory experiences when receiving health care.

Cervical Cancer Screening and Associated Barriers among Women in India: A Generalized Structural Equation Modeling Approach

Simple Summary

Exploring the barriers and facilitators of cervical cancer screening is essential to reduce the incidence and mortality, particularly in India. There is a paucity of studies presenting the mediation effects of known barriers and facilitators. The study investigates individual-level social barriers, facilitators, and the factors that mediate the relationships between suspected factors and cervical cancer screening. Understanding the mediation analysis and the effect of mediators will help us acquire a profound understanding of the mechanism of action, which will facilitate in devising strategies keeping the most important factor and their mediators in mind.

Abstract

Exploring the barriers and facilitators of cervical cancer screening (CCS) is essential to reduce the incidence and mortality, particularly in low and middle-income countries. The present study investigates the direct, indirect, and total effects of the barriers and facilitators on CCS in India through the generalized structural equation modeling using data from women files of the fourth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4). Generalized structural equation models were used to quantify the hypothetical pathway via fitting a series of regression equations. Age, body mass index, religion, years of schooling, awareness of sexually transmitted infection, contraception use, lifetime number of sex partners, number of children, and wealth index were shown to have significant direct effects on the CCS. Older women had 1.16 times the odds of getting screened for cervical cancer as compared to their younger counterpart. The odds of CCS among the women in richest wealth quintile is 2.50 times compared to the poorest. Those who are aware of STIs have 1.39 times the odds of getting screened for cervical cancer. Wealth index, years of schooling, and religion have a substantial indirect and total impact on the CCS. The findings will aid in policy formulations for enhancing the CCS in India.

Correlates of cervical cancer screening participation, intention and self-efficacy among Muslim women in southern Ghana

Background

The World Health Organisation’s efforts to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030 with a target of 70% screening coverage using a high-performance test demand that women increase participation in screening. Factors that impact uptake of screening must therefore be identified and bottlenecks addressed, especially in lower- and middle-income countries where cervical cancer incidence remains high. This study investigated Muslim women, participation in, intention to engage in and self-efficacy about cervical cancer screening.

Methods

An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among Muslim women aged 18 years and above in the Cape Coast Metropolis of Ghana using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were analysed using appropriate descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, point biserial correlation and binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

The mean age of participants was approximately 31 years (M = 30.9, SD = 10.4). Out of the 431 women, 21 (4.9%) had ever participated in cervical cancer screening. Participants demonstrated very low knowledge about cervical cancer and screening, with a mean knowledge score of 3.68 out of 15. Knowledge about cervical cancer was associated with increased odds of participating in cervical cancer screening (aOR = 1.32, 95%CI 1.11, 1.56). Concerns about similarity with health provider in terms of gender and faith was associated with decreased odds of cervical cancer screening self-efficacy (aOR = 0.81, 95% CI 0.67). Islamic modesty (aOR = 0.88, 95%CI 0.81, 0.96) was associated with decreased self-efficacy about seeking cervical cancer screening, whereas attitude (aOR = 1.32, 95%CI 1.14, 1.53) was significantly associated with increased self-efficacy about seeking cervical cancer screening. Again, Islamic modesty (aOR = 0.88, 95%CI 0.80, 0.97) was associated with decreased intention to participate in screening, whereas attitude (aOR = 1.42, 95%CI 1.20, 1.68) was associated with increased intention to participate in screening.

Conclusions

There are gaps in knowledge of cervical cancer among Muslim women in this study as less than 5% had participated in screening. A positive attitude was found to influence intention to screen and actual participation in screening programmes. Islamic modesty and commitment to the Islamic faith decreased intention and self-efficacy regarding screening. Therefore, comprehensive and appropriate socio-cultural and religion-specific interventions aimed at addressing the barriers to screening are important in improving uptake among Muslim women.

Concordant physician-patient characteristics lose importance for Arab American women and their healthcare- cross-sectional study

Background

Arab American women have preferred women physicians of their own culture in the past. The primary aim of this study is to determine the current influence of religion/culture among MENA women and their preferences for physicians of same sex, culture, and religion on the avoidance and uncomfortableness of routine and women's health exams.

Methods

A cross sectional community survey including religiosity and the importance of physician matched sex, culture, and religion was completed. Outcome measures were avoidance of a routine physical exam, or a women's health exam because of religious/cultural issues; and the uncomfortableness of the women's health exam. Linear regression modeling was used to evaluate the association between outcomes and potential predictors, with significance assessed using a bootstrap method.

Findings

The responses of 97 MENA women 30-65 years old showed that MENA women agreed that they would avoid routine health exams because of religious/cultural issues if their physician was of the same religion or culture as they were (p < 0.001, p < 0.05, respectively) or they had less education (p < 0.05). MENA women also avoided women's health exams due to religious/cultural issues if her physician was of the same religion as she (p < 0.01).

Interpretation

MENA women 30-65 years old may no longer be bound to a female physician of their same religion/culture for their health exams.

Development of a text message-based intervention for follow-up colposcopy among predominately underserved Black and Hispanic/Latinx women

PURPOSE

Underserved Black and Hispanic/Latinx women show low rates of follow-up care after an abnormal Pap test, despite the fact that cervical cancer is one of the few preventable cancers if detected early. However, extant literature falls short on efficacious interventions to increase follow-up for this population. A concurrent mixed methods study was completed to evaluate the acceptability of a text message-based intervention and identify perceived barriers and facilitators to follow-up after an abnormal Pap test among underserved predominantly Black and Hispanic/Latinx women.

METHODS

Patients who completed follow-up for an abnormal Pap test were recruited to complete a cross-sectional survey, qualitative interview assessing barriers and facilitators to follow-up, and text message content evaluation (N = 28). Descriptive statistics were performed to describe background variables and to evaluate the acceptability of text messages. A directed content analysis was completed for the qualitative interviews.

RESULTS

Participants expressed interest in a text message-based intervention to increase abnormal Pap test follow-up. In the qualitative interviews, low knowledge about cervical risk and negative affect toward colposcopy/test results were identified as barriers to follow-up. Facilitators of follow-up included feeling relieved after the colposcopy and adequate social support. Participants rated the text messages as understandable, personally relevant, and culturally appropriate.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that underserved Black and Hispanic/Latinx women experience cognitive and emotional barriers that undermine their ability to obtain follow-up care and a text message-based intervention may help women overcome these barriers. Future research should develop and evaluate text message-based interventions to enhance follow-up after an abnormal Pap test.

Associations between Spiritual Health Locus of Control, Perceived Discrimination and Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening for Muslim American Women in New York City

BACKGROUND

We sought to understand the impacts of religion-related factors, namely perceived discrimination and spiritual health locus of control, on breast and cervical cancer screening for Muslim American women.

METHODS

A total of 421 Muslim American women were surveyed at baseline of a breast and cervical cancer screening intervention, measuring discrimination through the Perceived Ethnic Discrimination Questionnaire (PED-Q), a 17-item scale measuring perceived interpersonal racial/ethnic discrimination; and spiritual beliefs through the Spiritual Health Locus of Control Scale, a 13-item scale measuring the link between control over one's health with a connection to religious beliefs. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine factors associated with an up-to-date mammogram and Pap test.

RESULTS

Most women preferred to receive medical care from a healthcare provider of their same gender (75.2%) and same race, ethnicity or religion (62.1%). The middle age group (50-59) and a lower God's Grace Spiritual Health Locus of Control subscale were associated with up-to-date mammogram. Younger age, lower education, higher Exclusion/Rejection subscale, and lower Spiritual Life/Faith Subscale were associated with an up-to-date Pap test.

CONCLUSION

The spiritual beliefs of Muslim American women impact their likelihood of obtaining breast and cervical cancer screenings. Therefore, these services need to be better tailored to match these needs, for example, by ensuring that Muslim American women have access to healthcare providers of their same gender, race, ethnicity or religion.

Promoting Health Literacy About Cancer Screening Among Muslim Immigrants in Canada: Perspectives of Imams on the Role They Can Play in Community

Purpose: Immigrants tend to have lower rates of cancer screening than non-immigrants in Canada. Inequity in screening rates may stem from religious factors, which religious leaders can influence. This study aimed to explore the knowledge and attitudes held by Muslim religious leaders about cancer screening, as well as the role religious leaders perceive they can play in improving cancer screening health literacy among South Asian Muslim immigrant women. Methods: We conducted interviews with 8 Muslim religious leaders in Calgary, Canada. Participants’ knowledge and attitudes were inductively summarized using descriptive analysis, while practices were deductively thematically analyzed using the Socioecological Model and the Communication for Development approaches. Results: We found participants mostly had some knowledge of cancer, but lesser knowledge of different screening tests and of low screening rates among immigrants. Participants proposed that their role as a speaker, access to facilities and community networks, and collaboration with universities and healthcare professionals could help overcome religious misinterpretations and promote cancer screening among South Asian Muslim immigrant women. Conclusion: Religious leaders were highly supportive of incorporating health messaging into faith-based messaging. Future work should focus on implementing the practices recommended in this study with South Asian Muslim immigrant women’s voices at their center.

Pap Smear and Mammogram Screening Rates in a Refugee and General OB/GYN Clinic: A Retrospective Review

Although multiple studies have shown that resettled refugee women are less likely to receive preventative cancer screenings like pap smears and mammograms, a small number have demonstrated the opposite. This retrospective chart review, conducted between January 2017 and October 2018, compares pap smear and mammogram rates of patients seen in a refugee-specific OB/GYN clinic with patients from the general OB/GYN clinic at the same institution. Data from 298 patients (149 refugee and 149 general clinic patients matched by age and date-of-visit) were analyzed. Pap smear screening rates were 90.60% in the refugee group and 73.83% in the general group [p < 0.009, aOR 3.46 (1.36-8.81)], while mammogram screening rates were 36.84% and 38.60%, respectively (p = 0.46). The provision of holistic services meeting refugee women's unique needs can effectively increase pap smear screening rates.

Understanding the Acceptability and Uptake of HPV Self-Sampling Amongst Women Under- or Never-Screened for Cervical Cancer in Toronto (Ontario, Canada): An Intervention Study Protocol

Cervical cancer remains a global public health concern, even though scientific advancements have made the disease almost entirely preventable. With the link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer, and the subsequent improvement in screening technology, there is potential to improve access and coverage of cervical screening with the introduction of HPV self-sampling. In Ontario, Canada, a province with a cytology-based screening program (i.e., Pap test), women who identify as South Asian, West Asian, Middle Eastern and North African have some of the lowest rates of screening, and research suggests they have a higher burden of cervical cancer. In this study, we will use both quantitative and qualitative methods to understand the acceptability and uptake of a take-home HPV self-sampling kit. Working with community champions—people with pre-existing connections with local groups—we will recruit women from these groups who are under- or never-screened for cervical cancer. Women will self-select whether they are in the group that tries HPV self-sampling or in the group that does not. We will aim for 100 women in each group. All participants will provide feedback on the feasibility, acceptability and preferences for cervical screening through a survey and phone follow-up. Women who self-select the HPV self-sampling group, will be followed up to find out if they followed through with self-sampling and to understand their experience using the device. Women who do not want to try self-sampling will be followed up to see if they went on to get a Pap test. The qualitative phase of this study consists of five focus groups with participants and semi-structured interviews with key informants in the community.

Promoting Colorectal Cancer Screening in South Asian Muslims Living in the USA

Colorectal cancer is one of the more common forms of cancer in South Asian men and women. Despite the rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) in South Asians, the CRC screening rates remain low in South Asians and Muslims compared with those in Whites and other ethnic minorities in the USA. Religious and cultural barriers have been examined in relation to other types of cancer such as breast and cervical cancers. However, few data are available about CRC screening among Muslims, particularly South Asian American Muslims. A community-based participatory research approach was used to assess attitudes toward CRC screening and various cultural, religious, and gender barriers that prevent CRC screening expressed by Muslim South Asian men and women in the larger San Francisco Bay Area. Six focus groups were conducted (three males and three females) with South Asian American Muslims. The focus groups consisted of a total sample size of n = 32, with 15 men and 17 women, with the average age of participants being 57 years old. This study highlighted key religious, cultural, and gender barriers to CRC screening including lack of awareness of CRC, the notion of fatalism as it relates to screening, lack of emphasis on preventive health, the need to preserve modesty, and stigma around certain CRC screening practices. Religiously tailored interventions and culturally sensitive healthcare providers are needed to better promote CRC screening in South Asian Muslim communities and to help inform the design of health interventions and outreach strategies.

Cervical cancer screening in the United States: Challenges and potential solutions for underscreened groups

Cervical cancer screening rates in the United States are generally high, yet certain groups demonstrate disparities in screening and surveillance. Individuals at greatest risk for cervical cancer are often from marginalized or underserved groups who do not participate in regular screening for a variety of reasons. Using the Population-based Research to Optimize the Screening Process (PROSPR) Trans-Organ Conceptual Model, including concepts of individual-, provider-, facility-, system-, or policy-level factors, we provide a commentary to highlight reasons for low screening participation among subgroups in the U.S. These include racial and ethnic minorities, rural residents, sexual and gender minorities, those with limited English proficiency, those with particular religious beliefs, and various health conditions. We describe barriers and offer potential solutions for each group. In addition, we discuss cross-cutting barriers to screening including difficulty interacting with the healthcare system (limited knowledge and health literacy, lack of provider recommendation/contact), financial (cost, lack of insurance), and logistical barriers (e.g., lack of usual source of care, competing demands, scheduling issues). Solutions to address these barriers are needed to improve screening rates across all underscreened groups. Changes at state and national policy levels are needed to address health insurance coverage. Mobile screening, ensuring that interpreters are available for all visits, and targeted in reach at non-gynecological visits can further overcome barriers. Employing community outreach workers can increase community demand for screening, and patient navigators can improve adherence to both screening and follow-up diagnostic evaluation. HPV self-sampling can address multiple barriers to cervical cancer screening.

The systematic cultural adaptation of a UK public health cancer awareness raising programme for Malaysia: the Be Cancer Alert Campaign

Increasingly, policy and research attention is being directed toward improving global health in low- and middle-income countries. This study investigated the cultural adaptation of a UK-designed and developed evidence-based mass media campaign with the aim of improving colorectal cancer and breast cancer awareness in Malaysia. Guided by the heuristic framework of cultural adaptation, a multidisciplinary team adapted the UK Be Cancer Aware programme for implementation in the Malaysian context. The approach included five steps: (a) information gathering and needs assessment; (b) preliminary design; (c) preliminary testing; (d) refinement; and (e) final trial. Key findings from the information gathering stage related to the need to take into account differences in ethnicity, religion, and beliefs about cancer. Discussions with experts indicated that particular words were not acceptable in Malay culture and that specific aspects were “taboo” (e.g., showing pictures of breasts in relation to breast cancer on TV). Stage 3 of the analysis revealed that the presentation of cancer survivors rather than health professionals on programme materials was preferred by Malaysians and that there was a poor level of awareness about colorectal cancer. The results were used systematically to adapt two culturally suitable cancer awareness mass media campaigns for implementation in Malaysia. The developed materials were in line with government priorities and took into account the local health care system structure. The establishment of a partnership with key stakeholders (e.g., the Ministry of Health and the lead patient advocacy organization) and the application of a systematic approach to address cultural factors and resource constraints contribute to the successful implementation of public health programmes in global health settings.

Uptake of cancer screenings among a multiethnic refugee population in North Texas, 2014-2018

Background

Refugees are less likely than US born populations to receive cancer screenings. Building Bridges is a community health worker prevention program designed to increase refugee’s cancer screening uptake. The purpose of this cross sectional analysis was to assess differences in uptake of cervical, breast, liver, and colorectal screens across six cultural groups.

Methods

Data was abstracted in 2018 for this analysis. Participants were categorized into six cultural groups (Myanmar, Central Africa, Bhutan, Somalia, Arabic Speaking Countries, and Other) to assess differences in sociodemographic measures and screening uptake. Uptake proportions were calculated for each cancer type (cervical, breast, liver, and colon) among eligible participants, by gender and cultural group. Differences in uptake across groups were assessed using stratified analysis and logistic regression. Prevalence odds ratios (POR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for each group to assess the association between screening completion and cultural group.

Findings

874 refugees were asked about cancer screening history. The majority of participants were either ‘never had been screened’ or ‘not up-to-date’ for every cancer screening. Among age eligible, 82% had no prior pap exam within the past 3 years, 81% had no prior mammogram within the past year, 69% didn’t know their Hepatitis B status and 87% never had a colon cancer screening. Overall, higher uptake of all types of cancer screenings was observed in Myanmar and Bhutanese groups, except colon cancer screening which was higher among Central African Region and Arabic Speaking participants.

Conclusion

Screening uptake varied by ethnic group and screening type. The program reached an under and never screened population, however, the proportion of refugees who received a cancer screening remained low compared to the US population. Diversity within refugee communities requires adaptation to specific cultural and linguistic needs to include new Americans in cancer elimination efforts.

Does transpersonal trust moderate the association between chronic conditions and general practitioner visits in the oldest old? Results of the AgeCoDe and AgeQualiDe study

AIM

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether transpersonal trust (TPT) moderates the relationship between chronic conditions and general practitioner (GP) visits among the oldest old in Germany.

METHODS

The multicenter prospective cohort Study on Needs, health service use, costs and health-related quality of life in a large sample of oldest old primary care patients (85+) (AgeQualiDe) was carried out. Individuals were recruited through GP offices at six study centers in Germany (follow-up wave 7). Primary care patients were aged ≥85 years (n = 861, mean age 89.0 years; range 85-100 years). The self-reported number of outpatient visits to the GP was used as the outcome measure. To explore religious and spiritual beliefs, the short form of the Transpersonal Trust scale was used. The presence or absence of 36 chronic conditions was recorded by the GP.

RESULTS

Multiple Poisson regressions showed that GP visits were positively associated with the number of chronic conditions (incidence rate ratio 1.03, P < 0.05). TPT moderated the relationship between chronic conditions and GP visits (incidence rate ratio 1.01, P < 0.05). The association between chronic conditions and GP visits was significantly more pronounced when TPT was high.

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlight the importance of TPT in the relationship between chronic conditions and GP visits. Future longitudinal studies are required to clarify this subject further. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 705-710.

The Development and Validation of a Modesty Measure for Diverse Muslim Populations

This paper reports on the multi-phase development of an English-language modesty measure for use among Muslim populations. The process yielded a 10-item measure that has high levels of internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's α of 0.83), and has acceptable discriminant and predictive validity. Specifically although our modesty measure for Muslim women was found to be significantly correlated with measures of positive and negative religious (Islamic) coping, it was not significantly correlated with religious practice-based religiosity (discriminant validity). Further logistic modeling revealed higher modesty levels positively associated with forgoing mammography because of concerns about lack of same-sex providers (predictive validity).

Cancer Screening Among Patients Who Self-Identify as Muslim: Combining Self-Reported Data with Medical Records in a Family Practice Setting

Cancer screening is a core component of family medicine but screening inequalities are well documented in Canada for foreign-born persons. Although people of Muslim faith and culture are the fastest growing immigrant population in Canada, there is little information in the literature about their cancer screening practices. Determining screening gaps could inform practice-based quality improvement initiatives. We conducted a retrospective chart review combining patient-level medical record data with self-reported religious affiliation to examine the relationship between religion and cancer screening in a large multi-site urban family practice. Religious affiliation was classified as Muslim, other affiliation, or atheist/no religious affiliation. 5311 patients were included in the study sample. Muslim patients were significantly less likely to prefer English for spoken communication than the other two groups, less likely to be Canadian-born, more likely to have a female family physician, and were over-represented in the lowest income quintile. Muslim women were most likely to be up-to-date on breast cancer screening (85.2 vs. 77.5 % for those with other religions vs. 69.5 % for those with no religious affiliation). There were no significant differences in cancer screening by physician sex. In this pilot study conducted within a primary care practice, we used self-reported data on religious affiliation to examine possible inequities in cancer screening and observed intriguing variations in screening by self-identified religious affiliation. Future efforts to collect and use similar patient-level data should incorporate non-official languages and intensively outreach to patients with less health system contact. Regardless, the family medicine context may be the ideal setting to collect and act on patient-level sociodemographic data such as religious affiliation.

Preference of specimen collection methods for human papillomavirus detection for cervical cancer screening: a cross-sectional study of high-risk women in Mombasa, Kenya

Objectives

Self-collection of genital specimens for high-risk types of human papillomavirus (hrHPV) detection may increase cervical cancer screening uptake. We hypothesized that women would prefer self-collection to clinician-collection of genital specimens. To test this hypothesis, and women’s preference between two different self-collection approaches, a total of 199 women were enrolled in a cross-sectional study in Mombasa, Kenya.

Materials and methods

Participants provided self-collected specimens using the Evalyn cytobrush (Rovers) stored in a dry tube and the Viba cytobrush (Rovers) stored in wet Aptima media (Hologic). A clinician also collected cervical specimens for hrHPV testing and for cytology, and performed visual inspection using acetic acid. A post-examination questionnaire assessed preferences for the different methods of specimen collection. To test the difference in proportions for each collection method, we performed an exact binomial probability test, under the null hypothesis that women would prefer each specimen-collection method equally.

Results

Most women preferred clinician-collection over self-collection (68% versus 32%, p < 0.01). For self-collection, dry-self collection with the Evalyn brush was preferred over the wet-selection with the Viba brush (53% versus 27%, p < 0.01). There was no association between preference for self-collection and preference for a particular self-collection cytobrush.

Conclusion

Further research to understand and address obstacles to self-collection of genital specimens may be needed to improve the uptake of self-collection for cervical cancer screening, especially in settings with poor access to trained healthcare providers.

Islamophobia, Health, and Public Health: A Systematic Literature Review

BACKGROUND

In 2017, a "Muslim ban" on immigrants to the United States was coupled with a continued rise in Islamophobia and hate crimes toward Muslims. Islamophobia undermines health equity, yet delineating the effects of Islamophobia globally is challenging as it affects a myriad of groups (geographically, racially, and socially). Additionally, stereotypes equate all Muslims with populations from the Middle East and South Asia. To date, health research pays insufficient attention to Islamophobia, Muslims, and those racialized to be Muslim.

OBJECTIVES

This literature review advances our understanding of racism and health by examining the racialization of religion, by specifically examining Islamophobia as a form of discrimination.

SEARCH METHODS

Per PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a search in October 2017 using PubMed-MEDLINE and a combination of terms. We identified additional articles using other search engines. For inclusion, articles needed to include a descriptor of discrimination, contain an identifier of Muslim or Muslim-like identity (i.e., groups commonly perceived as Muslim, including Arabs, Middle Easterners, North Africans, and South Asians), include a health outcome, be in English, and be published between 1990 and 2017.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We identified 111 unique peer-reviewed articles. We excluded articles that did not meet the following criteria: (1) examined Islamophobia, discrimination, or racism among a Muslim or Muslim-like population; (2) included a health outcome or discussion of health disparities; and (3) was conducted in North America, Europe, Australia, or New Zealand. This yielded 53 articles.

RESULTS

The majority of studies (n = 34; 64%) were quantitative. The remaining studies were qualitative (n = 7; 13%), mixed methods (n = 2; 4%), or reviews (n = 10; 19%). Most studies were based in the United States (n = 31; 58%). Nearly half of the reviewed studies examined mental health (n = 24; 45%), and one fourth examined physical health or health behaviors (n = 13; 25%). Others focused on both physical and mental health (n = 10; 19%) or health care seeking (n = 7; 13%). Studies showed associations between Islamophobia and poor mental health, suboptimal health behaviors, and unfavorable health care-seeking behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS

This study elucidates the associations between Islamophobia, health, and socioecological determinants of health. Future studies should examine the intersectional nature of Islamophobia and include validated measures, representative samples, subgroup analyses, and comparison groups. More methodologically rigorous studies of Islamophobia and health are needed. Public Health Implications. Addressing the discrimination-related poor health that Muslims and racialized Muslim-like subgroups experience is central to the goals of health equity and assurance of the fundamental right to health.

Reducing Muslim Mammography Disparities: Outcomes From a Religiously Tailored Mosque-Based Intervention

OBJECTIVE

To describe the design of, and participant-level outcomes related to, a religiously tailored, peer-led group education program aimed at enhancing Muslim women's mammography intention.

METHOD

Using a community-engaged approach and mixed methods, we identified and addressed barrier beliefs impeding mammography screening among Muslim American women. Our religiously tailored, mosque-based, peer-led intervention involved facilitated discussions and expert-led didactics conveying health-related religious teachings, and information about the benefits and process of mammography. Barrier beliefs were addressed through reframing, reprioritizing, or reforming such beliefs. Participant surveys were collected preintervention, postintervention, 6 months postintervention, and 1 year postintervention. These measured changes in mammography intention, likelihood, confidence, and resonance with barrier and facilitator beliefs.

RESULTS

A total of 58 Muslim women (mean age = 50 years) that had not had a mammogram in the past 2 years participated in the two-session program. Self-reported likelihood of obtaining a mammogram increased significantly ( p = .01) and coincided with a positive trend in confidence ( p = .08). Individuals with higher agreement with barrier beliefs preintervention had lower odds for positive change in likelihood (odds ratio = 0.80, p = .03), while those who were married had higher odds for positive change in likelihood (odds ratio = 37.69, p = .02). At 1-year follow-up, 22 participants had obtained a mammogram.

CONCLUSION

Our pilot mosque-based intervention demonstrated efficacy in improving Muslim women's self-reported likelihood of obtaining mammograms, and increased their mammography utilization, with nearly 40% obtaining a mammogram within 12 months of the intervention.

IMPACT

Our conceptual model for religiously tailoring messages, along with its implementation curriculum, proved effective in enhancing the likelihood and receipt of mammograms among Muslim American women. Accordingly, our work advances both the theory and practice of faith-based interventions and provides a model for addressing Muslim women's cancer screening disparities.

Perceived Risk of Developing Cancer in a Suburban Community in Malaysia

Objective:

To determine the perceived risk of developing cancer in a suburban community in Malaysia.

Methods:

A cross sectional study using a simple random sampling was conducted among residents aged 18 years old and above (n=520) who had never been diagnosed with cancer, in selected households in a suburban area of Pahang state in Malaysia. The study instruments were a validated questionnaire on risk perception, an automatic blood pressure monitor, a weighing scale and a measuring tape. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 20.0 and the p value was taken at p <0.05 as significant.

Result:

This study revealed that only 5.0 percent individuals perceived they were at risk cancer, whilst the perceived severity was 41.3 percent. Multivariable analysis showed a significant association only for a family history of cancer (adjusted OR of 4.80; 95% CI = 1.45-15.82) (p=0.010) among this population.

Conclusion:

The perceived risk of developing cancer in the selected suburban community of Pahang state in Malaysia is low as compared to that for other non-communicable diseases in this country, whilst the perceived severity was higher than for other diseases. Thus, considering the importance of correct perceptions for behavioral changes, more health education and promotion is needed to make the community better aware of the actual threat of cancer.

Mixed Blessings? Religion/Spirituality Predicts Better and Worse Screening Behaviours

Some health research suggests that religious and spiritual variables positively predict health-screening behaviours. However, much of the literature on this topic has utilized exclusively religious samples, or has sampled from populations without uniform access to health care. Either of these issues may have artificially inflated the relationship between religion/spirituality and health-screening behaviours. The current study used data from the 2012 Canadian Community Health Survey to examine a general sample of women from New Brunswick and Manitoba (N > 1200). Results indicated that lower levels of church attendance were positive predictors of papanicolaou tests and mammograms, while higher levels of attendance were generally associated with poorer screening behaviours. Religiosity was a uniformly non-significant predictor of screening behaviours. Finally, religious affiliation was inconsistently related to screening behaviours, but tended to favour religious non-affiliation when it was. Religion/spirituality does not appear to have a uniformly positive nor linear effect in predicting health-screening behaviours in women.

Limited Understanding of Pap Smear Testing among Women, a Barrier to Cervical Cancer Screening in the United Arab Emirates

Global data indicate that cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. Important factors that affect interventions for early diagnosis of cervical cancer include social beliefs and values and poor knowledge. These may contribute to women’s participation in screening for cervical cancer and have a significant impact on decisions to take preventive action. The present study was conducted with 599 women in the UAE between September 2016 and March 2017. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to determine knowledge about cervical cancer and screening, demographic characteristics and perceived barriers. Knowledge about the Pap smear test was limited, and awareness that they should undergo the Pap smear test every three years even with an initial negative/normal Pap smear result was abysmal. In spite of the positive attitude of the women towards the Pap smear test, almost 80% of the women surveyed had no knowledge of precancerous lesions. Having higher income (21/29, 72%, p=0.027) and more miscarriages were associated with better practice of Pap smears (19/26, 73%, p=0.010). Knowledge levels were significantly higher (66.3±22.2,) that values for attitude (60.5±20.9, p= 0.03, 95% CI {0.22-11.3}, Chi-square 4.38) and practice (53.7 24.1, p= 0.001, 95% CI {6.9-18.1}, Chi-square 19.7). A well-designed health education programme on cervical cancer and benefits of screening should increase the awareness among women in UAE. One point to stress is that better communication with health professionals and improvement of access to health care services should increase the rate of cervical cancer screening.

Emerging role of HPV self-sampling in cervical cancer screening for hard-to-reach women: Focused literature review

OBJECTIVE

To provide a focused critical review of the literature on the acceptability, feasibility, and uptake of human papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling among hard-to-reach women.

QUALITY OF EVIDENCE

A focused search to obtain relevant literature published in English between 1997 and 2015 was done using PubMed and EMBASE using search terms including HPV self-test or HPV self-sample or HPV kit in combination with acceptability or feasibility. Only studies that focused on never-screened or underscreened populations were included in this review.

MAIN MESSAGE

Human papillomavirus self-sampling was found to be highly acceptable and feasible among these hard-to-reach women across most studies. Mailing of self-sampling kits has been shown to increase participation among hard-to reach women. Some concerns remain regarding adherence to further follow-up among high-risk women with positive test results for HPV after screening.

CONCLUSION

There is a strong body of evidence to support the usefulness of HPV self-sampling in increasing participation of hard-to-reach women in screening programs (level I evidence). Convenience, privacy, ease of use, and, likely, cost-effectiveness of HPV self-sampling are driving forces in its emerging role in cervical cancer screening among hard-to-reach women. Key barriers to participation could be addressed by overcoming disparities in HPV-related knowledge and perceptions about cervical cancer screening.

Barriers to Cervical Cancer and Breast Cancer Screening Uptake in Low-Income and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review

Background:

Cervical cancer (CCa) and breast cancer (BCa) are the two leading cancers in women worldwide. Early detection and education to promote early diagnosis and screening of CCa and BCa greatly increases the chances for successful treatment and survival. Screening uptake for CCa and BCa in low and middle - income countries (LMICs) is low, and is consequently failing to prevent these diseases. We conducted a systematic review to identify the key barriers to CCa and BCa screening in women in LMICs.

Methods:

We performed a systematic literature search using Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, SCOPUS, CINHAL Plus, and Google scholar to retrieve all English language studies from inception to 2015. This review was done in accordance with the PRISMA-P guidelines.

Results:

53 eligible studies, 31 CCa screening studies and 22 BCa screening studies, provided information on 81,210 participants. We found fewer studies in low-income and lower - middle - income countries than in upper - middle - income countries. Lack of knowledge about CCa and BCa, and understanding of the role of screening were the key barriers to CCa and BCa screening in LMICs. Factors that are opportunities for knowledge acquisition, such as level of education, urban living, employment outside the home, facilitated CCa and BCa screening uptake in women in LMICs.

Conclusions:

Improvements to CCa and BCa screening uptake in LMICs must be accompanied by educational interventions which aim to improve knowledge and understanding of CCa and BCa and screening to asymptomatic women. It is imperative for governments and health policy makers in LMICs to implement screening programmes, including educational interventions, to ensure the prevention and early detection of women with CCa and BCa. These programmes and policies will be an integral part of a comprehensive population-based CCa and BCa control framework in LMICs.

Exploring the acceptability of human papillomavirus self-sampling among Muslim immigrant women

BACKGROUND

With appropriate screening (ie, the Papanicolaou [Pap] test), cervical cancer is highly preventable, and high-income countries, including Canada, have observed significant decreases in cervical cancer mortality. However, certain subgroups, including immigrants from countries with large Muslim populations, experience disparities in cervical cancer screening. Little is known about the acceptability of human papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling as a screening strategy among Muslim immigrant women in Canada. This study assessed cervical cancer screening practices, knowledge and attitudes, and acceptability of HPV self-sampling among Muslim immigrant women.

METHODS

A convenience sample of 30 women was recruited over a 3-month period (June-August 2015) in the Greater Toronto Area. All women were between 21 and 69 years old, foreign-born, and self-identified as Muslim, and had good knowledge of English. Data were collected through a self-completed questionnaire.

RESULTS

More than half of the participants falsely indicated that Pap tests may cause cervical infection, and 46.7% indicated that the test is an intrusion on privacy. The majority of women reported that they would be willing to try HPV self-sampling, and more than half would prefer this method to provider-administered sampling methods. Barriers to self-sampling included confidence in the ability to perform the test and perceived cost, and facilitators included convenience and privacy being preserved.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrate that HPV self-sampling may provide a favorable alternative model of care to the traditional provider-administered Pap testing. These findings add important information to the literature related to promoting cancer screening among women who are under or never screened for cervical cancer.

Demographic Predictors and Cancer Screening Among Asian Americans in Michigan: Role of Refugee Status

Although the Asian American population has steadily increased since 1980s, there remains a paucity of literature on cancer screening utilization on this population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate preventive health and screening practices by examining demographic predictors of health and screening behaviors among 217 Asian Americans living in state of Michigan. Several demographic and acculturation-related factors were found to be associated with "ever screened" status in the bivariate analyses. This included the examination of the relationships among refugee status and cancer screening practices among Asian Americans. After adjusting for other demographic correlates, Asian Americans in the refugee group had lower screening rates in colorectal and breast cancer. Our findings emphasize the need for effective interventions to increase cancer screening rates in this vulnerable population.

Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening among US and non US Born African American Muslim Women in New York City

PURPOSE

Health disparities related to breast and cervical cancer among African American and African-born Muslim women in the United States have been identified in previous literature. Our study aimed at exploring the breast and cervical screening rates and factors that influence this population's disposition to adhere to cancer screening exams.

METHODS

Mixed methods were used to collect data with African American and African-born Muslim women in New York City. Data were collected from a total of 140 women; among them, 40 participated in four focus groups.

FINDINGS

Focus groups revealed nine themes: healthcare practices; lack of knowledge/misconceptions; negative perceptions and fear; time; modesty; role of religion; role of men; role of community; stigma and shame. Among 130 women who reported their cancer screening status, 72.3% of those age 21 and over were adherent to cervical cancer screening; 20.0% never had a Pap test. Among women age 40 and over, 80.2% reported adherence to recommended mammogram; 12.8% never had one. Among women under age 40, 52.2% had their last clinical breast exam (CBE) less than three years ago. Among women age 40 and over, 75.0% were adherent to yearly CBE.

CONCLUSIONS

While rates of screenings were above the national average and higher than expected, specific barriers and facilitators related to religious and health beliefs and attitudes that influence the decision to adhere to screening were revealed. These factors should be further explored and addressed to inform future research and strategies for promoting regular breast and cervical cancer screenings.

Cervical Cancer Screening Among Arab Women in the United States: An Integrative Review

PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION

Arab American women are an ethnic minority and immigrant population in the United States with unique and nuanced sociocultural factors that influence preventive health behaviors. The aims of this article are to evaluate and synthesize the existing evidence on cervical cancer screening behaviors, as well as determine factors that influence these behaviors, among Arab American women.
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LITERATURE SEARCH

Extensive literature searches were performed using PubMed, CINAHL®, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane databases; articles published through October 2015 were sought. 
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DATA EVALUATION

Of 17 articles, 14 explicitly identified Arab and/or Muslim women and cervical cancer screening in either the title or the abstract; the remaining three focused on cancer attitudes and behaviors in Arab Americans in general but measured cervical cancer screening. Eleven articles reported different aspects of one intervention. Because of methodologic heterogeneity, the current authors synthesized results narratively.
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SYNTHESIS

Key factors influencing cervical cancer screening were identified as the following.

CONCLUSIONS

Cervical cancer screening rates among Arab American women are comparable to other ethnic minorities and lower than non-Hispanic White women. Findings are inconsistent regarding factors influencing cervical cancer screening behaviors in this underrepresented group. 
.

IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH

Significant need exists for more research to better understand cervical cancer prevention behaviors in this group to inform culturally relevant interventions. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in increasing cervical cancer screening awareness and recommendations for Arab American women.

Low Coverage and Disparities of Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening in Thai Women: Analysis of National Representative Household Surveys

BACKGROUND

The coverage of breast and cervical cancer screening has only slightly increased in the past decade in Thailand, and these cancers remain leading causes of death among women. This study identified socioeconomic and contextual factors contributing to the variation in screening uptake and coverage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Secondary data from two nationally representative household surveys, the Health and Welfare Survey (HWS) 2007 and the Reproductive Health Survey (RHS) 2009 conducted by the National Statistical Office were used. The study samples comprised 26,951 women aged 30-59 in the 2009 RHS, and 14,619 women aged 35 years and older in the 2007 HWS were analyzed. Households of women were grouped into wealth quintiles, by asset index derived from Principal components analysis. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Screening rates for cervical and breast cancers increased between 2007 and 2009. Education and health insurance coverage including wealth were factors contributing to screening uptake. Lower or non- educated and poor women had lower uptake of screenings, as were young, unmarried, and non-Buddhist women. Coverage of the Civil Servant Medical Benefit Scheme increased the propensity of having both screenings, while the universal coverage scheme increased the probability of cervical screening among the poor. Lack of awareness and knowledge contributed to non-use of both screenings. Women were put off from screening, especially Muslim women on cervical screening, because of embarrassment, fear of pain and other reasons.

CONCLUSIONS

Although cervical screening is covered by the benefit package of three main public health insurance schemes, free of charge to all eligible women, the low coverage of cervical screening should be addressed by increasing awareness and strengthening the supply side. As mammography was not cost effective and not covered by any scheme, awareness and practice of breast self examination and effective clinical breast examination are recommended. Removal of cultural barriers is essential.

Muslim immigrant women's views on cervical cancer screening and HPV self-sampling in Ontario, Canada

Background

Canada has observed significant decreases in incidence and mortality of cervical cancer in recent decades, and this has been attributed to appropriate screening (i.e., the Pap test). However, certain subgroups including Muslim immigrants show higher rates of cervical cancer mortality despite their lower incidence. Low levels of screening have been attributed to such barriers as lack of a family physician, inconvenient clinic hours, having a male physician, and cultural barriers (e.g., modesty, language). HPV self –sampling helps to alleviate many of these barriers. However, little is known about the acceptability of this evidence-based strategy among Muslim women. This study explored Muslim immigrant women’s views on cervical cancer screening and the acceptability of HPV self-sampling.

Methods

An exploratory community-based mixed methods design was used. A convenience sample of 30 women was recruited over a 3-month period (June–August 2015) in the Greater Toronto Area. All were between 21 and 69 years old, foreign-born, self-identified as Muslim, and had good knowledge of English. Data were collected through focus groups.

Results

This study provides critical insights about the importance of religious and cultural beliefs in shaping the daily and health care experiences of Muslim women and their cancer screening decisions. Our study showed the deterring impact of beliefs and health practices in home countries on Muslim immigrant women’s utilization of screening services. Limited knowledge about cervical cancer and screening guidelines and need for provision of culturally appropriate sexual health information were emphasized. The results revealed that HPV self-sampling provides a favorable alternative model of care to the traditional provider-administered Pap testing for this population.

Conclusion

To enhance Muslim immigrant women screening uptake, efforts should made to increase 1) their knowledge of the Canadian health care system and preventive services at the time of entry to Canada, and 2) access to culturally sensitive education programs, female health professionals, and alternative modes of screening like HPV self-sampling. Health professionals need to take an active role in offering screening during health encounters, be educated about sexual health communication with minority women, and be aware of the detrimental impact of preconceived assumptions about sexual activity of Muslim women.

Attitudes and factors affecting acceptability of self-administered cervicovaginal sampling for human papillomavirus (HPV) genotyping as an alternative to Pap testing among multiethnic Malaysian women

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine the attitudes and acceptability of self-administered cervicovaginal sampling compared with conventional physician-acquired Papanicolaou (Pap) smear among multiethnic Malaysian women.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study was carried out via interviewer-administered surveys from August 2013 through August 2015 at five government-run, urban health clinics in the state of Selangor. Subjects were participants from an ongoing community-based human papillomavirus (HPV) prevalence study who answered a standard questionnaire before and after self-sampling. The cervicovaginal self-sampling for HPV genotyping was performed using a simple brush ('Just for Me'; Preventive Oncology International, Hong Kong). Detailed data on sociodemographics, previous Pap smear experience, and attitudes towards self-administered cervicovaginal sampling were collected and analysed. Acceptability was inferred using a five-item Likert scale that included six different subjective descriptives: experience, difficulty, convenience, embarrassment, discomfort or pain, and confidence in collecting one's own sample.

RESULTS

Of the 839 participants, 47.9% were Malays, followed by 30.8% Indians, 18.8% Chinese and 2.5% from other ethnicities. The median age of the participants was 38 years (IQR 30-48). Some 68.2% of participants indicated a preference for self-sampling over the Pap test, with 95% indicating willingness to follow-up a positive result at the hospital. Age, ethnicity and previous Pap test experience were significant independent factors associated with preference for self-sampling. The older the individual, the less likely they were to prefer self-sampling (adjusted OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.90 to 0.98). The Chinese were less likely to prefer self-sampling (72.6%) than the Malays (85.1%) (adjusted OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.98, p=0.004). Participants who had never undergone a Pap smear were also more likely to prefer self-sampling (88.5%) than women who had undergone a previous Pap (80.9%) (adjusted OR 0.06, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.87).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, urban Malaysian women from multiethnic backgrounds found self-sampling to be an acceptable alternative to Pap smear.