Cancer diagnosis, treatment and care: A qualitative study of the experiences and health service use of Roma, Gypsies and Travellers

Abstract

Background Early diagnosis and treatment are key to reducing deaths from cancer, but people from Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) groups are more likely to encounter delays in entering the cancer care system. Roma, Gypsies and Travellers are ethnic minorities who experience extreme health inequalities. Objective To explore the experiences of cancer diagnosis, treatment and care among people who self‐identify as Roma or Gypsies and Travellers. Methods A participatory qualitative approach was taken. Peer researchers conducted semi‐structured interviews (n = 37) and one focus group (n = 4) with community members in Wales and England, UK. Results Cancer fatalism is declining, but Roma, Gypsies and Travellers experience barriers to cancer healthcare at service user, service provider and organisational levels. Communication was problematic for all groups, and Roma participants reported lack of access to interpreters within primary care. Clear communication and trusting relationships with health professionals are highly valued and most frequently found in tertiary care. Conclusion This study suggests that Roma, Gypsies and Travellers are motivated to access health care for cancer diagnosis and treatment, but barriers experienced in primary care can prevent or delay access to diagnostic and treatment services. Organisational changes, plus increased cultural competence among health professionals, have the potential to reduce inequalities in early detection of cancer.

A meta-ethnography investigating relational influences on mental health and cancer-related health care interventions for racially minoritised people in the UK

“…inclinations for spiritual healing, responsibilities towards families). All included papers fitted the relationality framework we developed, including patient appeals for recognition, the importance of respect and trust in consultations [ 100 , 101 ], while adding some interesting nuances. For example, one paper emphasised that religion was a place where participants could turn to so as to be heard, e.g.…”

Barreiras e facilitadores para atenção à saúde de pessoas com câncer em uma comuna do norte do Chile: relatório qualitativo

“…(45) Al respecto, las comunidades informadas generan una mayor conciencia preventiva, por lo que es más probable que accedan a tiempo al tratamiento, dado que para algunos el dolor es el único síntoma que motiva la búsqueda de ayuda. (46,47)…”

Can routine data be used to estimate the mental health service use of children and young people living on Gypsy and Traveller sites in Wales? A feasibility study

“…GP practices and other health care providers should ensure that services are made acceptable and accessible to Gypsies and Travellers, and acknowledge and remove administrative and cultural barriers for those who may fear or who have experienced discrimination, or do not have a permanent address. Methods for doing this have been suggested in previous empirical research [17,78].…”