ABSTRACT
Understanding the complexities surrounding cervical cancer prevention methods and hesitancy among conservative Muslim American women is crucial in addressing health disparities. This qualitative study aimed to delve into the religious, behavioral, and socio-cultural factors influencing Muslim women's decisions regarding cervical cancer screening (CC-S) and HPV vaccination (HPV-V) in Virginia, USA. Through interviews with 10 Muslim women residing in Virginia, qualitative data were collected as part of a mixed-method cross-sectional study conducted between August and September 2021. Findings revealed that participants had limited knowledge about cervical cancer, CC-S, and HPV-V, with notable themes emerging, such as cultural influences, misconceptions, language barriers, and challenges posed by the intricate US healthcare system. Future research should focus on exploring these barriers to mitigate the impact of cervical cancer within the Muslim population.
Subject(s)
Papillomavirus Infections , Uterine Cervical Neoplasms , Female , Humans , Virginia , Islam , Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/prevention & control , Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/diagnosis , Early Detection of Cancer , Papillomavirus Infections/prevention & control , Cross-Sectional Studies , Qualitative Research , Delivery of Health Care , Health Knowledge, Attitudes, PracticeABSTRACT
Muslim women often find their religious customs at odds with their healthcare needs, such as regular gynecological check-ups and cervical cancer screenings, especially before marriage. Religious beliefs may also affect beliefs about gender roles, illness, and death, affecting seeking healthcare services. This retrospective study explored the differences in care-seeking related to cancer between Muslim women and the general female population at the Virginia Commonwealth University in the United States between 2010 and 2019. There were major differences in insurance status between the two cohorts. Muslim women were less likely to have government-sponsored health insurance and were much more likely to be uninsured than non-Muslim women. We also found that preventable female cancers were more prevalent among Muslim women than among non-Muslim women and was also diagnosed at more advanced stages.
