Download Screening for breast cancer among young Jordanian women

Screening for breast cancer among young Jordanian women: ambiguity and
apprehension
K. Al Dasoqi MPhil, RN Lecturer1, R. Zeilani PhD Assistant Professor1,*,
M. Abdalrahim PhD Assistant Professor1, C. Evans PhD Lecturer2
Article first published online: 26 JUL 2013
DOI: 10.1111/inr.12025
Keywords:
Breast Cancer; Cultural Care; Early Detection; Jordanian Women; Young Women
Aims
The goal of this study was to understand young Jordanian women's attitudes towards
breast cancer screening practices in order to improve young women's uptake of screening
and early detection.
Background
The incidence of breast cancer is increasing annually among younger Jordanian women;
however, little is known about their attitudes towards breast cancer and associated
screening practices. Young women's attitudes towards breast cancer must be taken into
account when designing screening strategies and interventions specifically for this age
group. Screening strategies must also acknowledge young women's cultural context;
however, little is known about how culture shapes their understandings and practices.
Methods
A qualitative interpretive approach was utilized to interview 45 young educated women
about their breast cancer views and screening practices. Data were analysed thematically.
Findings and Discussion
Four overlapping themes emerged: (i) young women should not think about it, (ii)
absence of a role model, (iii) cultural shame of breast cancer, and (iv) cancer means death
and disability. The study found high levels of apprehension and ambiguity related to
breast cancer. This was associated with the perceived impact of a cancer diagnosis on a
young woman's social status and family role. Family support was perceived to be a
necessary prerequisite for seeking treatment or screening.
Conclusions
Understanding young women's perception about screening and early detection of breast
cancer is essential for policy makers and healthcare providers to design culturally
appropriate and age-appropriate health promotion campaigns and services.