Knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about lung cancer in three culturally and linguistically diverse communities living in Australia: a qualitative study

Abstract

Limited awareness of the signs and symptoms of lung cancer, combined with cultural perceptions about cancer, impacted on attitudes towards help-seeking behaviour in these three CALD communities. So what? The prevalence of smoking among Chinese men, Vietnamese men and Arabic-speaking communities in NSW puts them at increased risk of lung cancer. Health promotion initiatives for lung cancer should be tailored for CALD communities and could focus on increasing knowledge of key symptoms, awareness that ex-smokers are at risk and awareness of the diagnostic pathway including the importance of avoiding delays in help-seeking.

Nutritional status, management and clinical outcomes in patients with esophageal and gastro‐oesophageal cancers: A descriptive study

“…At present, there is limited literature on nutritional outcomes for cancer patients from CALD backgrounds. Various studies have proposed that patients from CALD backgrounds have a different attitude and understanding of health when compared with their non‐CALD counterparts . This difference might lead to poorer compliance with the dietitian recommendations.…”

“…Another study found that the Chinese, Vietnamese and Arabic‐speaking communities in Sydney, Australia, had limited awareness of signs and symptoms of lung cancer. Their cultural perceptions about cancer and level of trust in general practitioners had a significant impact on their willingness in seeking medical advice …”

“…Various studies have proposed that patients from CALD backgrounds have a different attitude and understanding of health when compared with their non-CALD counterparts. [25][26][27] This difference might lead to poorer compliance with the dietitian recommendations.…”

“…Their cultural perceptions about cancer and level of trust in general practitioners had a significant impact on their willingness in seeking medical advice. 27 In addition to cultural belief, the cost of health care and waiting time to receive treatment are the biggest barriers for the CALD population. 28 This might also impact on their access to traditional medical treatment.…”

Lung cancer in rural and remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Queensland: awareness and identifying health needs in a cultural context

“…Australia is a multicultural nation yet Indigenous Australians and other minority groups face prejudice and ongoing challenges in their lives. 48 Strategies to deliver health service commensurate with societal changes and which consider cultural differences must continue to be explored so outcomes can improve.…”