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Journal of General Internal Medicine

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Open Access 01-11-2007 | Original Article

Barriers Beyond Words: Cancer, Culture, and Translation in a Community of Russian Speakers

Authors: Daniel Dohan, PhD, Marya Levintova, PhD

Published in: Journal of General Internal Medicine | Special Issue 2/2007

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Language and culture relate in complex ways. Addressing this complexity in the context of language translation is a challenge when caring for patients with limited English proficiency (LEP).

OBJECTIVE

To examine processes of care related to language, culture and translation in an LEP population is the objective of this study.

DESIGN

We used community based participatory research to examine the experiences of Russian-speaking cancer patients in San Francisco, California. A Russian Cancer Information Taskforce (RCIT), including community-based organizations, local government, and clinics, participated in all phases of the study.

PARTICIPANTS

A purposeful sample of 74 individuals were the participants of the study.

APPROACH

The RCIT shaped research themes and facilitated access to participants. Methods were focus groups, individual interviews, and participant observation. RCIT reviewed data and provided guidance in interpreting results.

RESULTS

Four themes emerged. (1) Local Russian-language resources were seen as inadequate and relatively unavailable compared to other non-English languages; (2) a taboo about the word “cancer” led to language “games” surrounding disclosure; (3) this taboo, and other dynamics of care, reflected expectations that Russian speakers derived from experiences in their countries of origin; (4) using interpreters as cultural brokers or establishing support groups for Russian speakers could help address barriers.

CONCLUSIONS

The language barriers experienced by this LEP population reflect cultural and linguistic issues. Providers should consider partnering with trained interpreters to address the intertwining of language and culture.

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Title: Barriers Beyond Words: Cancer, Culture, and Translation in a Community of Russian Speakers
Authors: Daniel Dohan, PhD
Marya Levintova, PhD
Publication date: 01-11-2007
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Journal of General Internal Medicine / Issue Special Issue 2/2007
Print ISSN: 0884-8734
Electronic ISSN: 1525-1497
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-007-0325-y

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BACKGROUND

OBJECTIVE

DESIGN

PARTICIPANTS

APPROACH

RESULTS

CONCLUSIONS

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