A Culture-Centred Approach to Breast Cancer Communication Among Black Women in KwaZulu-‍Natal, South Africa

Breast cancer is a significant global health concern. Women in low-income settings, such as South Africa, are increasingly being diagnosed with this illness and often face poorer survival outcomes. The existing body of research on this topic highlights the need for new culturally informed studies. Such research is expected to support the development of culturally appropriate communication strategies that promote early cancer detection and treatment. This study therefore investigates the awareness and communicative practices of selected Zulu women concerning breast cancer. Thirty semi-structured interviews were conducted with women with breast cancer from KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. Analysed using the culture-centred approach and thematic analysis, their accounts indicate that current communication approaches do not align well with the Zulu context. Unequal power dynamics between patients and healthcare providers, geographic seclusion and a pro-literacy bias are significant barriers to effective breast cancer communication. The findings of this study highlight the importance of enhancing cultural sensitivity within healthcare systems to strengthen breast cancer awareness and communication in KwaZulu-Natal.