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Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Human Factors

Date Submitted: Oct 25, 2023
Date Accepted: Nov 8, 2024

The final, peer-reviewed published version of this preprint can be found here:

Unveiling Sociocultural Barriers to Breast Cancer Awareness Among the South Asian Population: Case Study of Bangladesh and West Bengal, India

Hamid F, Roy T

Unveiling Sociocultural Barriers to Breast Cancer Awareness Among the South Asian Population: Case Study of Bangladesh and West Bengal, India

JMIR Hum Factors 2025;12:e53969

DOI: 10.2196/53969

PMID: 39793010

PMCID: 11759912

Unveiling Socio-cultural Barriers to Breast Cancer Awareness among South Asians; A Case Study of Bangladesh and West Bengal, India

  • Fahmida Hamid; 
  • Tania Roy

ABSTRACT

Breast cancer is one of the most predominant cancers in South Asia (Bangladesh and West Bengal, India), like many other parts of the world. Early detection plays a vital role in managing the disease and reducing its impact on individuals’ lives. However, achieving mass awareness about breast cancer in diverse societies presents unique challenges, as there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and cultural norms and socioeconomic conditions differ significantly between communities. To understand and identify the root causes of breast cancer awareness barriers in our selected regions, we conducted comprehensive and open-ended interviews with individuals from the local populations. Through a rigorous qualitative data analysis, we identified 20 significant obstacles, which we categorized into distinct societal levels: individual, family, local society, health care system, and country/region. This detailed understanding of the barriers informs us of the need for culturally relevant tailored strategies to address each level. In light of our research findings, we propose practical solutions to overcome these barriers, emphasizing the importance of context-specific approaches. Additionally, we explore the potential of social media as a powerful tool for disseminating mass awareness while respecting and aligning with the region’s cultural and socioeconomic norms. By adopting this sensitive and well-informed approach, we aim to enhance the early detection of breast cancer and contribute to reducing its impact on South Asian communities.


 Citation

Please cite as:

Hamid F, Roy T

Unveiling Sociocultural Barriers to Breast Cancer Awareness Among the South Asian Population: Case Study of Bangladesh and West Bengal, India

JMIR Hum Factors 2025;12:e53969

DOI: 10.2196/53969

PMID: 39793010

PMCID: 11759912

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