Title | “If It Is Written by Allah, There Is Nothing That Can Stop It”: Saudi women’s breast cancer narratives |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2015 |
Authors | Sinky, TH, Cheyney, M, Dolcini, MM |
Journal | Health, Culture and Society |
Volume | 8 |
Issue | 2 |
Pagination | 60 - 74 |
Date Published | 12/2015 |
Abstract | The purpose of this study was to identify cultural models of breast cancer held by Saudi women and to explore how these may influence early detection and treatment-seeking behaviors. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews with breast cancer survivors (n=20) from two Western cities in Saudi Arabia. Respondents were recruited through social networking, using purposive, snowball sampling. Illness narratives elicited during interviews were transcribed, coded and then analyzed using a modified grounded theory approach. Results suggest that fatalism, perceived threats to traditional role fulfillment, and a preference for traditional therapies commonly mark the breast cancer experiences of Saudi women, influencing their early detection and treatment-seeking behaviors. A more nuanced understanding of emic viewpoints could help to improve public health messaging and intervention strategies in Saudi Arabia. |
DOI | 10.5195/HCS.2015.196 |
Short Title | hcs |