Exploring orAL cAncer Risk behaviouRs of Indian imMigrants in Australia : a mixed-methods study to inform preventative strategies (the ALARRM study)

Abstract

The broad aim of this mixed methods study was to explore oral cancer risk behaviours of Indian immigrants and identify preventative strategies to raise oral cancer awareness. The specific aims were to examine the self-reported oral cancer knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Indian immigrants in Australia and perceived barriers and facilitators in adopting preventative strategies. Similarly, the oral cancer-related knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices of General Practitioners (GPs) were investigated along with their perceived barriers and facilitators in promoting preventative strategies in Australia. This thesis is presented as a series of five published papers. Two publications are presented as the literature review and the remaining three papers are from the qualitative and quantitative results. The ALARRM study has provided valuable insight into the under-researched area of oral cancer risk in Australia. It has revealed varying levels of knowledge about oral cancer among the sample of Indian immigrants, particularly around risk factors like alcohol and areca nut use as well as oral cancer-related signs/symptoms. Positive attitudes about preventative oral health practices were evident, although some participants were involved in oral cancer risk practices. The findings have also highlighted the lack of adequate information regarding oral cancer being provided in primary health care settings and uncertainty around the scope of practice of GPs in this area. GPs play a vital role as primary health care providers and are a gateway to access specialist health services. However, a lack of relevant oral health training is making it difficult for GPs to actively promote oral cancer prevention. The overall findings suggest the need for the formulation of community-centred oral cancer preventative and awareness strategies along with capacity building of primary health care professionals. Steps taken on a policy level could also help in reducing oral cancer incidence. Further research through larger studies and a more representative sample is warranted to xxi explore this area in Australia and confirm the study findings. Greater knowledge in this area will help inform the development of culturally sensitive and tailored strategies to raise awareness of oral cancer risk among the growing Indian immigrant population in Australia.

Date of Award	2022
Original language	English