Introduction
Cancer, a condition characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the body.
Among cancers affecting women, breast cancer ranks as the most prevalent one. While advancements in treatment have led to a decline in breast cancer-related deaths over time, it remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women overall.
Breast cancer is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, yet it often remains shrouded in silence and stigma due to a number of factors, such as misconceptions about the disease, embarrassment, or cultural sensitivities surrounding the breasts. Annually, around 240,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women. Sadly, about 42,000 women succumb to breast cancer among them each year, and 24% of all new breast cancer cases are diagnosed in people aged 75 and over each year giving rise to highlighting the urgent need for continued research, awareness, and improved treatment options.
Common Taboos and How to Break Them
The stigma surrounding cancer remains a significant issue among diverse cultural communities, especially concerning women’s cancers. In the UK, breast cancer screening has played a crucial role in preventing approximately 2000 deaths annually. However, there has been a concerning trend of declining attendance for breast cancer screenings. Women from ethnic minority backgrounds encounter several obstacles when it comes to breast cancer screening. These barriers include a lack of awareness about the screening program, language barriers for those who do not speak English as their first language, inadequate education about breast cancer, unfamiliarity with medical terminology, feelings of embarrassment or modesty, and cultural or religious reservations regarding the intimate nature of the screening process. These challenges highlight the need for targeted efforts to overcome barriers and ensure equitable access to breast cancer screening for all women, regardless of their cultural background.
Here are some of the ways that can be employed to break the barriers
Strategies to Break the Taboo
Take Action
Action is needed to address the complex health challenges arising from shifting demographics as communities become more diverse.
Reach the Unreached
Underserved populations and difficult-to-reach communities must be specifically targeted to ensure equitable access to cancer care across all patient groups.
Communicate Well
Health communication strategies should be adapted to raise awareness and improve access to screening programs, thus enhancing participation rates among diverse populations.
Tailored Treatment
Screening and treatment options should be tailored to accommodate specific cultural or religious preferences, thereby making them more acceptable to affected communities. When ignored, these issues worsens the cancer burden and keeps health inequality the norm. With every action step that an individual takes to address this issue the impact reaches limits bringing forth results.
Early Detection
Detecting breast cancer at an early stage and receiving advanced cancer therapy are crucial tactics in preventing fatalities caused by breast cancer. Early detection of breast cancer, when it is localized and small, enhances the prospects of successful treatment. Undergoing routine screening examinations is the most dependable method to identify breast cancer in its initial stages.
Apart form these, by following the below steps we can educate and empower individuals to be ready in the phase of adversity.
1. Education and Awareness: Implement targeted educational campaigns to raise awareness about breast cancer, the importance of screening, and available resources. Provide information in multiple languages to reach those with language barriers.
2. Community Outreach: Engage community leaders, organizations, and influencers to promote breast cancer awareness and screening initiatives. Offer culturally appropriate materials and events to encourage participation.
3. Accessible Services: Improve access to breast cancer screening services by offering flexible scheduling, mobile clinics, and transportation assistance. Ensure that screening facilities are welcoming and inclusive of diverse cultural backgrounds.
5. Peer Support Networks: Establish peer support groups or networks where individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds can share their experiences, concerns, and knowledge about breast cancer screening. Encourage open dialogue and mutual support.
6. Empowerment Through Education: Provide opportunities for women to become advocates for their own health by educating them about breast cancer screening and empowering them to make informed decisions. Offer resources for self-advocacy and navigation of the healthcare system.
Conclusion
By implementing these strategies and fostering a supportive, culturally sensitive environment, we can work towards breaking taboos and increasing equitable access to breast cancer screening for all women, regardless of their cultural background.
Resources :
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(17)30641-1/fulltext
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