Research Information System
RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES, vol.171, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus)
Background: Cancer, with its increasing incidence and mortality rates, remains one of today's top global public health concerns. People with intellectual disabilities, a vulnerable population group, are at increased risk of developing cancer due to their high prevalence of behavioral risk factors. This study aims to examine the experiences of health professionals who perform cancer screening on individuals with intellectual disabilities. Method: The research is a phenomenological study. Data were collected from 13 healthcare professionals working in Cancer Early Diagnosis, Screening, and Education Centers between May and August 2025. A semi-structured interview form based on the literature was used to collect data. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Participants' experiences were examined under four themes and eleven subthemes: the meaning of caring for an individual with intellectual disabilities, difficulties experienced, coping with difficulties, and encouragement for cancer screening. Conclusion: It has been determined that healthcare professionals experience professional satisfaction when providing care to individuals with intellectual disabilities, but at the same time, they face challenges during this process. Healthcare professionals and managers working in screening units should collaborate to restructure services aimed at increasing the participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in cancer screening programmes.