| Individual-Level Barriers |
Limited Language Proficiency
“I am motivated to go, but the language is a barrier. If the letter comes in Finnish, I will not read it, and I will throw it away because I do not understand.” (P3/FGD3) “I think many people would not go to the screening because they do not understand what the letter is about when they get the letter. (P2/FGD8)” Communication Issues
“In my case, she (test-taker) did not even explain the test. Only she asked if I have done the test before or not.” (P2/FGD4) “If you are looking at me differently because of my skin color and treat me like that, I will not be likely to encourage my fellow sisters to go (screening).” (P4/FGD5) Unpleasant Experiences of Screening
“My own was just the pains, the physical pains when she (test-taker) was searching; it was painful.” (P3/FGD5) “I think that even the experience can affect the screening because if you have someone nice, you will feel motivated to come back.” (P2/FGD1)
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| System-Level Barriers |
Lack of Screening Awareness
“I have been here (Finland) for like seven years, and given birth to two children, I have always had a permanent address and never got that kind of letter.” (P3/FGD8) “The awareness is so limited; I did not even know what we were talking about until now.” (P4/FGD2) Misunderstanding of Screening Purpose
“I did not know that the Pap test is for cervical cancer, so there was no fear of anything. I was not thinking about how good the test is to me at that moment, but I went because everybody was going. I was thinking I will be punished for not going.” (P3/FGD7) “The letter comes home, it is now left for you to know what is written, it is the same process for everybody.” (P1/FGD2) Miscomprehension of Screening Results
“I thought after the test that I would be told about the results. Until now, I have not gotten results, and do not know what the results were.” (P4/FGD5) I think sometimes they do not tell you the result if you are clean. If they see a problem, then they will call you immediately to get your treatment.” (P2/FGD1)
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