Published date: Jan 31 2024

Journal Title: Gulf Education and Social Policy Review

Issue title: Gulf Education and Social Policy Review (GESPR): Volume 4, Issue 2

Pages: 144–172

DOI: 10.18502/gespr.v4i2.15138

Nuray OzturkFaculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia

Syeda Zakia Hossainzakia.hossain@sydney.edu.auFaculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia

Martin MackeyFaculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia

Patrick BrennanFaculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia

Patrick BrennanFaculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia

Adam ShukriFaculty of Nursing, RAK Medical and Health Science University, RAK, UAE

Cervical cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the UAE and the fourteenth most common cancer among women in Australia (Sung et al., 2021). Despite the introduction of vaccinations and cervical screening programs in both countries, Emirati and non-Emirati women living in Ras Al Khaimah and migrant women living in Sydney still face significant health disparities when accessing cervical cancer screening services. Currently, there is a lack of literature examining the obstacles to and facilitators of cervical screening among these groups of women. This study aimed to better understand the knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer and factors that hinder or promote access to cervical screening among these groups, which is crucial if healthcare professionals and policymakers are to deliver culturally sensitive services. This study was conducted in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) and Sydney. The results identified several barriers to cervical cancer screening participation, including lack of knowledge, emotional, cultural, religious and psychological barriers, and organizational factors. The findings have implications for policies to address these barriers and encourage women to participate in health awareness initiatives and screening services.

Keywords: Cervical cancer, Screening practice, Migrant Women, Awareness

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