Barriers and Facilitators Influencing Arab Muslim Immigrant and Refugee Women’s Breast Cancer Screening: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Introduction: This narrative review identifies barriers and facilitators influencing breast cancer screening among Arab Muslim immigrants and refugees. Low participation rates create health inequities in breast cancer screening among this population. Method: A systematic search of peer-reviewed empirical articles was performed. PRISMA, CASP, and MMAT checklists were used to appraise the studies. Results: Results include 3 themes: individual, health care system and health providers, and cultural factors. Discussion: Lack of fluency in the new country’s language, lack of knowledge, and poor exposure to breast cancer screening may contribute to the Arab Muslim women’s vulnerability to undiagnosed or delayed breast cancer diagnosis.