How Community Pharmacies Can Raise Uterine Cancer Awareness Among Women From Ethnic Minority Populations

Background Community pharmacies are a potential route to reach underserved groups due to their locations and staff, who often reflect the diversity of the populations they serve. This study aimed to explore the potential for a uterine cancer awareness campaign encouraging earlier presentation of red-flag symptoms amongst ethnic minority women conducted through community pharmacies. Methods Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with pharmacy staff. Views and experiences on the role of the pharmacy in cancer awareness, the impact of language and cultural sensitives on discussions, and signposting for red-flag symptoms were explored using a predesigned interview schedule. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results Fifteen pharmacy staff (pharmacists, technicians, and managers) working in a variety of clinical settings participated in an interview. The identified themes were: diversity and demographics; the community and its pharmacy; and women's health. All participants reported low awareness of uterine cancer and its red-flag symptoms, however, saw the potential for pharmacies to reach women in their communities. A number of participants reported prior experience in sign-posting symptomatic patients to primary care but lacked confidence to discuss red-flag symptoms due to their limited knowledge. Pharmacists identified the need for formal standardised training for staff to ensure accuracy knowledge dissemination and mobilisation. Conclusion This study has shown the huge potential of community pharmacies to address cancer inequities through culturally tailored, co-designed interventions. However, structured staff education, ensuring accuracy of information dissemination, and formal signposting or pathways for symptomatic patients enabling timely onward referral for investigation would be needed.