"Doctor, what do i have?" Knowledge of cancer diagnosis among immigrant/migrant minorities

J Cancer Educ. 2013 Mar;28(1):165-70. doi: 10.1007/s13187-012-0429-x.

Abstract

This study explores patient knowledge of cancer diagnosis among underserved immigrant/migrant minorities. Patients were recruited at a hospital-based cancer clinic in New York City. Demographic and self-reported diagnosis and treatment information were collected; charts were reviewed to ascertain cancer diagnosis. Four hundred thirty-four patients were included. Eighty-seven percent preferred to speak a language other than English in the health care setting. Sixteen percent had incorrect knowledge of their cancer diagnosis. Multivariate analysis indicated that both preference for a non-English language and diagnosis of a "below the belt" cancer were jointly predictive of incorrect knowledge (LR = 17.01; p = 0.0002). "Below the belt" cancers included bladder, colorectal, gynecological, penile, prostate, and testicular cancers. Among this cohort of immigrant/migrant cancer patients, a considerable proportion was unaware of their correct cancer diagnoses. This may have a significant impact on subsequent cancer education, treatment, and care. Limited-English-proficiency patients may be at particular risk.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Communication Barriers*
  • Emigrants and Immigrants / psychology*
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Language*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Minority Groups / psychology*
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms / prevention & control
  • Neoplasms / psychology*
  • New York City
  • Physician-Patient Relations*
  • Self Report
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Young Adult