Abstract
PurposeHealth 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.MethodsMixed 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.FindingsFocus 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.ConclusionsWhile 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.
Highlights
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States (US), regardless of race or ethnicity [1]
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
Four focus groups were conducted with 40 Muslim women
Summary
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States (US), regardless of race or ethnicity [1]. Increased mammography screening has contributed to the nearly 20% decline in breast cancer mortality in the past 20 years [2,3,4,5]. Higher rates of breast cancer incidence continue to persist for minority groups largely due to lower rates of breast cancer screening and delayed follow-up of abnormal screening results [6,7,8]. Cervical cancer incidence and deaths in the US have decreased significantly over the past 40 years as a result of increased screening in the form of regular Papanicolaou (Pap) tests [10]. The rates of new cases of cervical cancer as well as the death rates are higher among certain race/ethnicities, among Black women [11]. It has been estimated that as many as 80% of cervical cancer deaths could be prevented by regular screening coupled with adequate follow-up and treatment [14]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
