The effects of language barriers between health care professionals and clients who do not speak English are recognized well in recent literature. For instance, a recent study based on cancer being the number one cause of death for Hmong women indicated that these women are among the lowest for being screened against the specific disease (Tanjasiri, Kagawa, Foo, Chao, Linayao, Nguyen, Pirumyan. and Valdez, 2007, page. 140.“The lack of culturally and linguistically appropriate educational interventions” were the main contributing factors for the high rates of Hmong women not being screened against cancer(Tanjasiri et al, para. 1). Moreover, the study in question discovers a major link between language barriers and minorities not receiving adequate health information. Screening for cancer can lead to early detection of cancer, and thus one is more likely to survive the disease. If an individual is unable to understand the importance of screening for early detection of many diseases, he or she is more likely to experience the fatal outcomes of the disease process. As a result, the Hmong women study places emphases on the notion that individuals are dieing due to their inability to understand the predominately spoken language used in the health care system (2007). Implications based on the Hmong women study reinforced the need for more linguistically available information regarding health conditions that are prevalent in particular ethnic groups. Hence, it is essential for individuals to be educated on methods for preventing certain diseases individuals are at risk for receieving. Other recommendations stated in recent literature are based on an increase in the use of audiovisual devices such as videos and non-verbal communication to help explain health promoting information to individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

     Ultimately, it is important that individuals from different cultures understand the education given to them by health care professions in order for them to have the knowledge needed to live healthy lives. Nevertheless, a language barrier between health care professionals and patients is merely one aspect of the health care system that restrics different ethnic groups from receieving adequete care. Together language barriers and cultural differences contribute to the oppression of minorities within the health care system.




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