ORCID Profile
0000-0002-5187-300X
Current Organisation
University of Western Sydney Parramatta Campus
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Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2022
Abstract: Oral cancer is widespread in South Asia, particularly India. In Australia, Indians are one of the fastest-growing communities. This study aimed to explore the oral cancer-related knowledge, attitudes and practices of Indian immigrants in Australia. Fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with Indian immigrants residing across New South Wales and Victoria. Purposive and snowball s ling were used for recruitment. Data were analysed through a directed content analysis approach. All participants were knowledgeable of oral cancer risks associated with tobacco and alcohol, but few were familiar with the harmful effects of areca nut preparations. Varied attitudes were evident with most participants acknowledging the importance of oral cancer check-ups, yet very few followed this practice. All participants admitted engaging in oral cancer risk practices including areca nut use at least once or more in their lifetime. Oral cancer risk practices are common among Indian immigrants in Australia who possess limited knowledge with varying attitudes in this area. Implications for public health: Preventative strategies are needed to limit the use of oral cancer risk products among Indian immigrants. General practitioners and community organisations can play a key role in raising awareness in this area.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-05-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S12885-020-06944-9
Abstract: Oral cancer is a growing problem worldwide, with high incidence rates in South Asian countries. With increasing numbers of South Asian immigrants in developed countries, a possible rise in oral cancer cases is expected given the high prevalence in their source countries and the continued oral cancer risk behaviours of immigrants. The aim of this review is to synthesise existing evidence regarding knowledge, attitudes and practices of South Asian immigrants in developed countries regarding oral cancer. Five electronic databases were systematically searched to identify original, English language articles focussing on oral cancer risk knowledge, attitudes and practices of South Asian immigrants in developed countries. All studies that met the following inclusion criteria were included: conducted among South Asian immigrants in developed countries explored at least one study outcome (knowledge or attitudes or practices) used either qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods. No restrictions were placed on the publication date, quality and setting of the study. A total of 16 studies involving 4772 participants were reviewed. These studies were mainly conducted in the USA, UK, Italy and New Zealand between 1994 and 2018. Findings were categorised into themes of oral cancer knowledge, attitudes and practices. General lack of oral cancer risk knowledge (43–76%) among participants was reported. More than 50% people were found engaging in one or more oral cancer risk practices like smoking, betel quid an/gutka chewing. Some of the participants perceived betel quid an/gutka chewing habit good for their health (12–43.6%). This review has shown that oral cancer risk practices are prevalent among South Asian immigrants who possess limited knowledge and unfavourable attitude in this area. Culturally appropriate targeted interventions and strategies are needed to raise oral cancer awareness among South Asian communities in developed countries.
Publisher: Springer Singapore
Date: 2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJNURSTU.2018.08.013
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to systematically review studies that discuss the experiences of vulnerable populations participating in research on sensitive topics. Systematic review performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Thirteen databases were searched, locating 197 articles. Following removal of duplicates, screening and full text review, 31 studies remained to be critically appraised. As there was a mix of qualitative and quantitative articles, the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) toolkit and Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) tool were used to appraise the methodological quality of the articles. Following critical appraisal, the remaining 11 articles were synthesised narratively to identify common themes across the studies. Despite some reports of distress, responses from participants were overwhelmingly positive. There was a strong link between symptomatology and potential for distress however, the majority of those who did experience some level of discomfort stated they would still participate in future research. Three major themes were extracted: "It was worth it" "Even if it hurt, I would do it again" and "Risk or benefit: fixing the location on the continuum". Although researchers frequently experience obstacles and the phenomenon known as "gatekeeping" when attempting to conduct research amongst vulnerable populations, there is little evidence of harm to participants. On the contrary, there is evidence of benefit for participants and evidence that they are willing to participate if given the opportunity. Although well-meaning, the actions of gatekeepers are not only paternalistic, they could be further marginalising vulnerable populations by denying them the benefits to be gained from research designed to identify and begin addressing their needs.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 07-2016
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 22-10-2021
Abstract: Background: In Australia, Indian immigrants are one of the fastest-growing communities. Since oral cancer is widespread in India, the indulgence of Indians in customs of areca (betel) nut use in Australia may be linked to the recent rise in oral cancer cases. Since GPs (general practitioners) are primary healthcare providers, it is pivotal to ensure the oral cancer awareness of GPs. This study aimed to explore oral cancer risk-related knowledge, beliefs, and clinical practices of GPs in Australia. Methods: Fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with GPs practicing across New South Wales and Victoria. Purposive and snowball s ling were used for recruitment. Data were analysed through a directed content analysis approach. Results: All GPs were knowledgeable of major oral cancer causative factors including tobacco and alcohol, but some had limited understanding about the risks associated with areca nut preparations. Positive attitudes were evident, with all participants acknowledging the importance of oral cancer risk assessment. Most GPs recalled not performing oral cancer routine check-ups. Conclusion: GPs presented good oral cancer knowledge except for emerging risk factors such as areca nut use. Varied beliefs and inconsistent clinical practices relating to oral cancer screening is concerning. Accessible oral cancer training around emerging risk factors may benefit GPs.
No related grants have been discovered for Rona Pillay.