ArticleAsian Pacific journal of cancer prevention : APJCP2025
Breast Cancer Myths, Mysterious Miracles and Mistrust among Rural Womenfolk in Sarawak.
Article in Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention : APJCP, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 3 papers, 1 of them a synthesis that pooled it.
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Who cites it
3 citing papers in PubMed, 1 synthesis or guideline pooled it.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) genotype distribution in Malaysia: A systematic review.BMC infectious diseases · 2025Pooled it
- Breast cancer survival rates in Sarawak, Malaysia: a central referral centre study.BMC cancer · 2026Article
- Modeling breast cancer screening hesitancy among Chinese women: integrating the Knowledge-Attitude-Practice, health belief, and 5 C frameworks.BMC public health · 2026Article
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5 authors.
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Abstract
backgroundSarawak hospitals report high rates of advanced cancer among women in remote rural areas. Cultural beliefs, low awareness, socio-economic challenges, geographical barriers, and the lack of specialist cancer care contribute to late diagnoses, particularly in breast cancer, exacerbating disparities in access to timely treatment.
objectiveThis study aimed to explore cultural beliefs, barriers, and healthcare access challenges influencing breast cancer awareness and screening among Sarawak's indigenous and rural communities.
methodsThis qualitative study explores how rural Sarawakian women perceive breast cancer and their access to healthcare. Twenty women from three main geographical terrains in Borneo-coastal, riverine, and highland areas participated in the study. After informed consent was obtained, semi-structured interviews were conducted. Data was coded and thematically analyzed to identify cultural nuances affecting their knowledge.
resultsThe study found a strong link between cancer and negative beliefs rooted in sociocultural backgrounds. Myths varied, but most associated cancer with death, a fatalistic culture relying on spiritual faith for healing. Participants delayed seeking medical help until "the pain is unbearable," often using oils and herbs first. Lack of knowledge and lack of access to information about cancer are two main findings from the study. Although the majority of the respondents were not equipped with adequate information, they expressed interest in learning about breast screening programs and attending breast cancer awareness campaigns.
conclusionThe findings will be used to design behavioral intervention modules to educate rural Sarawak populations about the importance of breast self-examination (BSE) practices, early detection, and screening.
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