Linguistic Accessibility to Oncological Healthcare Information Resources for Arabic-Speaking Migrants in Andalusia

Abstract

The aim of this research article is to analyse the management of multilingualism in healthcare settings serving migrant populations, with particular emphasis on accessibility, translation, and interpretation. The increasing linguistic diversity in many European countries, including Spain, poses significant challenges to ensuring equitable access to healthcare. Effective communication between healthcare professionals and migrant patients is essential for achieving accurate diagnoses, appropriate treatment, and overall patient well-being. This study specifically examines the healthcare needs of the Arabic-speaking migrant population in Andalusia, with particular attention to women’s access to health information related to breast cancer. It also analyses the availability of institutional informational resources for the detection, prevention, and treatment of this condition. To this end, the study employs a methodology that integrates documentary analysis, a review of the European and Spanish legislative frameworks on linguistic accessibility, and an examination of the textual genres used in health communication. It assesses the extent to which existing materials are linguistically and culturally adapted for Arabic-speaking users, as well as the availability and quality of their Arabic translations. Finally, the article presents the results and proposes a set of priority resources and materials for translation, with the aim of enhancing communicative equity and improving access to information within Andalusian healthcare services.