Exploring the Landscape of Breast Cancer Prevention among Chinese Residents in Italy: An In-Depth Analysis of Screening Adherence, Breast Self-Examination (BSE) Practices, the Role of Technological Tools, and Misconceptions Surrounding Risk Factors and Symptoms

Luana Conte, Roberto Lupo, Serena Sciolti, Alessia Lezzi, Ivan Rubbi (), Stefano Botti, Maicol Carvello, Annarita Fanizzi, Raffaella Massafra, Elsa Vitale and Giorgio De Nunzio
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Luana Conte: Laboratory of Biomedical Physics and Environment, Department of Mathematics and Physics “E. De Giorgi”, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
Roberto Lupo: “San Giuseppe da Copertino” Hospital, Local Health Authority, 73043 Lecce, Italy
Serena Sciolti: Independent Researcher, 73100 Lecce, Italy
Alessia Lezzi: National Cancer Association (ANT) Italia ONLUS Foundation, 73100 Lecce, Italy
Ivan Rubbi: School of Nursing, University of Bologna, 48018 Faenza, Italy
Stefano Botti: Haematology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, 42100 Reggio Emilia, Italy
Maicol Carvello: Ravenna Community Hospital, Local Health Authority Romagna, 48100 Ravenna, Italy
Annarita Fanizzi: Laboratorio di Biostatistica e Bioinformatica, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70126 Bari, Italy
Raffaella Massafra: Laboratorio di Biostatistica e Bioinformatica, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70126 Bari, Italy
Elsa Vitale: Scientific Directorate, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70126 Bari, Italy
Giorgio De Nunzio: Laboratory of Biomedical Physics and Environment, Department of Mathematics and Physics “E. De Giorgi”, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy

IJERPH, 2024, vol. 21, issue 3, 1-26

Abstract: Background: Breast cancer remains a significant health concern among women globally. Despite advancements in awareness and diagnostic techniques, it persists as a leading cause of death, with profound impacts on affected individuals’ quality of life. Primary and secondary prevention, including regular screenings and practices like breast self-examination (BSE), are pivotal in ensuring early diagnosis. The national health system (NHS) in Italy offers screenings for women aged 50–69 every two years, managed by the local health authority. However, the participation rates, especially among the Chinese female population residing in Italy, are not well understood. Methods: Using a snowball method, we electronically disseminated a survey to investigate how Chinese women living in Italy engage with available NHS screening programs. The survey also explores their practice of BSE and the use and impact of technological tools on prevention. Furthermore, the study aims to understand the subjects’ depth of knowledge and misconceptions about breast cancer. Results: The data reveal a significant gap in breast cancer screening adherence and knowledge among Chinese women in Italy, with a notable discrepancy between the general population and those who have previously encountered cancer. Conclusions: The results highlight the urgent need for interventions that are culturally sensitive, stressing that these actions are not only desirable but essential.

Keywords: Chinese residents in Italy; breast cancer screening; breast self-examination; prevention (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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