2024 World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC) - Posters-P2.04B.05 Engaging Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities to Prepare for Lung Cancer Screening Implementation in Australia.

P2.04B.05 Engaging Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities to Prepare for Lung Cancer Screening Implementation in Australia.

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This report details a study funded by the NHMRC Ideas Grant on the readiness of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in Australia for lung cancer screening (LCS). Conducted by researchers including Sarah York and Nicole M. Rankin, the study involved seven focus groups across Arabic-speaking, Lebanese, Macedonian, Italian, and Vietnamese communities. These sessions aimed to identify barriers and enablers for engaging these groups in LCS, particularly before the upcoming implementation of the Australian National Lung Cancer Screening Program in July 2025.<br /><br />The focus group methodology employed culturally sensitive approaches, including bilingual facilitators and in-language resources, like a translated video from the National Health Service to introduce LCS. Findings were analyzed using thematic analysis and mapped to the Health Equity Implementation Framework.<br /><br />Key findings indicated overall positive perceptions of LCS, though significant barriers remain. Participants emphasized the importance of "in-language" awareness campaigns and co-designing strategies to improve uptake. Barriers included negative views on screening risks, accessibility issues, restricted eligibility, financial burdens, and limited trust in healthcare pathways if without a regular GP. Additionally, cultural attitudes like fear and stigma associated with cancer were noted as potential deterrents. Trust in General Practitioners (GPs) as conveyors of screening information was deemed crucial, as was providing translators.<br /><br />The study highlights the importance of continued engagement with CALD communities to design culturally aligned LCS programs. These insights are not only relevant for Australia but can inform other regions looking to improve participation from diverse populations in health screening initiatives. Engaging these communities in the development of LCS programs is essential to ensuring successful implementation aligned with their unique needs and addressing identified barriers.

Asset Subtitle

Nicole Rankin

Meta Tag

Speaker Nicole Rankin

Topic Screening & Early Detection

Keywords

NHMRC Ideas Grant

culturally diverse communities

lung cancer screening

Australia

focus groups

health equity

barriers and enablers

in-language resources

cultural attitudes

healthcare trust