Mapping Breast Cancer Screening Publications in Palestine: A Scoping Review of Barriers and Facilitators.

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to summarize literature about barriers and facilitators to participation in the breast cancer screening (BCS) activities among Palestinian women living in the West Bank or Gaza Strip to which could direct future research and guide policymakers and stakeholders for proper interventions.

Methods: We conducted a literature review guided by the Arksey and O'Malley framework. PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched from database inception to May 2025 without restrictions on language or publication date. Original studies examining barriers and/or facilitators related to breast cancer screening and early-detection practices among Palestinian women living in the West Bank or Gaza Strip were eligible. Two reviewers independently screened the records, and disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer. Data were charted using a predefined form. Without restrictions on language or publication date. After data extraction, reported barriers were grouped inductively into five overarching categories based on conceptual similarity. Facilitators were charted separately as factors associated with greater screening uptake or screening practice.

Results: Low participation in BCS services was reported by several studies. Personal and cultural barriers such as embarrassment, fear of cancer diagnosis, not being a priority, and lack of time were highly reported. Other health care system, socioeconomic, knowledge-based, and geographical barriers such as male healthcare providers, perceived lower risk of cancer, unawareness of breast cancer screening services, cost, and difficulty reaching clinics were also reported by several studies. Meanwhile, good knowledge about BCS services, perceived benefit of early detection, receiving referrals from NGOs or hospitals, being employed or married, and living in a city were some of the reported facilitators.

Conclusions: Health organizations, policymakers, and stakeholders can use this literature as a comprehensive source that summarizes the attitudes of Palestinian women toward BCS services, which could guide them in proper interventions, initiatives, and identifying opportunities for future research.