Improving treatment education in Black and South Asian women

Purpose: Disparities in health outcomes for cancer patients from ethnic minority backgrounds have been reported, as consequence of direct care received or poorer access to services. As part of cancer care, patients are educated on treatments to minimise harm and maximise treatment benefit. Our evaluation was designed to understand gaps in cultural awareness of practitioners educating patients as part of their clinical practice, focussing on Black and South Asian women. 

Methods: This mixed methods study involved a questionnaire containing 30 questions with specific statements based on awareness, knowledge and connectivity to patients of different ethnicities, which was completed by practitioners working with patients with cancer. The questionnaire was followed by focus groups inviting patients treated with systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT), who were >18 years of age and able to communicate for themselves. Rapid evaluation techniques were used to transcribe and analyse focus group data. 

Results: Ninety practitioners across the UK completed the questionnaire. Most participants were pharmacists (70%, n = 63). Sixty-nine percent (n = 62) of respondents were from the South East or London. Eighty-one percent (n = 73) were female. A large proportion of practitioners believed there were not enough resources available to them to adequately minority patients of different ethnicities; they identified language as a main barrier. Patients believed the complexity of language used in their education was a key area for improvement, as well as the need for more specific information on adverse events. 

Conclusion: Improvements should focus on better communication, adverse event management and education, representing key areas of concern identified by this study.