Title“If It Is Written by Allah, There Is Nothing That Can Stop It”: Saudi women’s breast cancer narratives
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2015
AuthorsSinky, TH, Cheyney, M, Dolcini, MM
JournalHealth, Culture and Society
Volume8
Issue2
Pagination60 - 74
Date Published12/2015
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.

DOI10.5195/HCS.2015.196
Short Titlehcs