A qualitative study of barriers and enablers associated with colorectal cancer screening among Somali men in Minnesota

ABSTRACT

The rate of cancer screening is generally increasing in the US. In Minnesota, the statewide average rate of screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) is 73%. However, screening completion is relatively low among Somali men; overall, only 27% of Somali immigrants have been screened for CRC. Factors contributing to this disparity have not been well researched. The purpose of this pilot study was to employ focus group methodology to describe and advance understanding of the barriers and enablers associated with CRC screening among Somali men ages 50–74 in Minnesota. Three focus groups were conducted among 27 Somali men in Minnesota. A 9-question, semi-structured interview guide was used. The sessions were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and checked for accuracy by research staff prior to data analysis. Three research team members utilized the constant comparative method and NVivo to conduct data analysis. Five barriers to CRC screening emerged from the analyses: (1) lack of knowledge, (2) emotional barriers, (3) acculturation, (4) accountability, and (5) fatalistic beliefs. In addition, two factors enabling CRC screening and prevention emerged: the need for tailored interventions and preventive lifestyle behaviors. The insights gained from this research will assist in developing health promotion and education-focused interventions that encourage Somali immigrants in Minnesota and beyond to seek early detection screening for CRC.

Abbreviations: CRC: Colorectal Cancer; FIT: Fecal Immunochemical Test; FOBT: Fecal Occult Blood Test; FQHC: Federally Qualified Health Center; PA: Project Assistant; PI: Principal Investigator

KEYWORDS:

• Barriers
• cancer early detection
• colorectal cancer
• health disparities
• qualitative research
• Somali men

Acknowledgements

The research team extends gratitude to the participants, community champion Mr. Abdullahi Sheikh with the Brian Coyle Community Center, and recruitment flyer developer D-Brand Designs, all of whom made the study possible. We also extend sincere gratitude to Dr. Naomi Ruff and Eleanor Mayfield who provided editorial assistance.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported in part by the University of Minnesota’s Public Health and Administration Program and the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) under [grant number R25CA163184]. The content is solely the responsibility of the research team and does not necessarily represent the official views of the University of Minnesota or NIH.