CN66 - Healthcare needs, experiences of cancer care, and attitudes towards cancer among ethnic Chinese immigrants in Scotland

Background

In Glasgow, 1.7% of the Scottish population are estimated to be ethnic Chinese immigrants. Ethnic Chinese immigrants as an ethnic minority group are at risk of experiencing health disparities because of cultural and language barriers, particularly when a cancer diagnosis is involved. More research is needed to inform healthcare services in Scotland to become more culturally aware and person-centred for minority groups. This study aimed to investigate the healthcare needs, experiences of cancer care, and attitudes towards cancer of ethnic Chinese immigrants who live in Scotland.

Methods

A mixed-methods, sequential study was conducted that involved: (1) A systematic review that synthesised primary research evidence on the quality of life, unmet needs and experiences of care in Asian immigrants with cancer who live in western countries. (2) One survey that explored the healthcare needs and wellbeing of ethnic Chinese patients and family members in Scotland. (3) A second survey that investigated knowledge and attitudes towards cancer within five Scottish ethnic Chinese communities. (4) One focus group and ten in-depth interviews that explored experiences of cancer care from the perspectives of patients, family members, and health and social care staff in Scotland.

Results

Preliminary results indicate that ethnic Chinese immigrants affected by cancer need high quality and culturally appropriate information. They experience challenges when trying to communicate with clinicians and this challenge extends beyond language barriers, including conflict on views about wellness. There is a cultural belief that talking about cancer is taboo and related to fatalism which can lead to stigma for patients and misunderstanding of cancer within the wider Chinese community. Ethnic Chinese immigrants are a hard-to reach group, which may put them at risk for poorer outcomes in relation to cancer if not appropriately approached.

Conclusions

Understanding the cancer-related needs and beliefs of this population is key to evaluate and re-shape policy and recommendations based on lived experiences and priorities. Community-based research is an important first step to gaining access to minority groups, with the support of community leaders.

Clinical trial identification

Editorial acknowledgement

Legal entity responsible for the study

University of Glasgow.

Funding

China Scholarship Council.

Disclosure

All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.