Barriers to Early Diagnosis of Breast Cancer amongst women in the Fiji Islands: A Qualitative Study

Naidu, Carol Kartika; Wiseman, Nicola; Hyatt, Amelia; Harris, Neil

doi:10.31557/APJCP.2024.25.7.2297

Barriers to Early Diagnosis of Breast Cancer amongst women in the Fiji Islands: A Qualitative Study

Document Type : Research Articles

Authors

¹ School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia.

² Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia.

10.31557/APJCP.2024.25.7.2297

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the factors that may account for the delay in diagnosis and treatment in Fijian female breast cancer patients. Methods: This study adopted a qualitative approach to gain an in-depth understanding of individual barriers and participants’ experiences within the Fijian context. Utilising semi-structured interviews, the study interviewed breast cancer survivors, community women, healthcare professionals, and traditional healers. Results: Two primary themes emerged from participants’ narratives relating to barriers to early breast cancer detection: (1) individual-related factors and (2) healthcare system-related factors. Within these, five sub-themes were identified. For individual-related factors, these included: cultural & religious beliefs, social support, and awareness & misconception. For healthcare system factors, the sub-themes were: House of death and limited community accessibility to screening and awareness initiatives. Conclusion: The results highlighted the need for targeted interventions that consider the importance of cultural beliefs, improve awareness, and foster trust in the healthcare system.

Keywords