Methodology for Analyzing Qualitative Data in Multiple Languages.

BACKGROUND: Translation strategies are commonly used for qualitative interview data to bridge language barriers. Inconsistent translation of interviews can lead to conceptual inequivalence, where meanings of participants' experiences are distorted, threatening scientific rigor. OBJECTIVES: Our objective is to describe a systematic method developed to analyze multilingual, qualitative interview data while maintaining the original language of the transcripts. METHODS: A literature review of translation strategies, cross-language, and multilingual qualitative research was conducted. Combined with criteria for qualitative content analysis and trustworthiness, the methodology was developed and used for a qualitative descriptive study. RESULTS: The study had interview data in both English and Spanish. The research team consisted of both native Spanish and English speakers, who were grouped based on language. Verbatim transcription of data occurred in the original languages. All codes were kept in English, allowing the research team to view the data set as a whole. Two researchers within each group coded each transcript independently before reaching a consensus. The entire research team discussed all transcripts, and finally, major themes were determined. Participants' quotes remained in the original language for publication, with an English translation included when needed. DISCUSSION: Analyzing transcripts in the original language brought forth cultural themes that otherwise may have been overlooked. This methodology promotes conceptual equivalence and trustworthiness that is paramount in cultural, linguistic, and social determinants of health research to advance health equity.

Barriers and facilitators for adopting a healthy lifestyle among Latina cancer survivors: A qualitative descriptive study.

PURPOSE: Cancer is the leading cause of death among Hispanics/Latinos in the USA. Latina cancer survivors experience higher symptom burden than other cancer survivors. A healthy lifestyle can decrease recurrent cancer risk, increase well-being, and may decrease symptom burden in cancer survivors. The purpose of this study was to explore the barriers and facilitators for adopting healthy lifestyle behaviors among Latina cancer survivors. METHODS: Using the Health Belief Model as the theoretical framework, qualitative descriptive methodology was used for secondary analysis of data from a previously conducted randomized clinical trial. Transcripts from the telephone health coaching calls, analyzed in the original language (English or Spanish), were used for this qualitative analysis. RESULTS: Intervention telephone call transcript data from Latina cancer survivors (n = 14) were analyzed. Major themes were as follows: Perceived susceptibility to other chronic illnesses, perceived benefits of a healthy lifestyle, and perceived barriers and facilitators of adopting a healthy lifestyle. Lack of knowledge about healthy lifestyle behaviors could prevent participants from adopting a healthy lifestyle; gaining new knowledge about healthy lifestyle behaviors was a facilitator for changing lifestyle. Family responsibility and wearable technology could both prevent and motivate the participants to adopt a healthy lifestyle. CONCLUSION: Developing culturally appropriate interventions for Latina cancer survivors is vital to decrease symptom burden and health risks, as well as improve health outcomes in this population.