Assessing Barriers to Cancer Screening and Early Detection in Older Adults in Saudi Arabia: A Mixed-Methods Approach to Oncology Nursing Practice Implications
2024

Barriers to Cancer Screening in Older Adults in Saudi Arabia

Sample size: 120 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Alodhialah Abdulaziz M., Almutairi Ashwaq A., Almutairi Mohammed

Primary Institution: King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Hypothesis

What factors influence cancer screening behaviors among older adults in Riyadh?

Conclusion

Older adults in Saudi Arabia face significant barriers to cancer screening, including logistical, psychological, and social challenges.

Supporting Evidence

  • Logistical barriers included transportation issues and limited availability of screening services.
  • Psychological barriers involved fear of diagnosis and denial about the need for screening.
  • Social influences included lack of family support and cultural stigma surrounding cancer.

Takeaway

Older people in Saudi Arabia find it hard to get cancer screenings because of transportation issues, fear of what doctors might find, and lack of support from family.

Methodology

The study used a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from 100 participants and qualitative insights from 20 interviews.

Potential Biases

Self-reported data may lead to underreporting or overreporting of barriers.

Limitations

The study used convenience sampling, which may limit generalizability, and relied on self-reported measures that could introduce bias.

Participant Demographics

Participants were older adults aged 60 and above, with a mean age of 66.3 years, including 53% male and 47% female.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/curroncol31120580

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