Case Study: Cultural Adaptation in Translation Projects

Overview

Sylaba Translations partnered with a peak cancer organisation in Australia to support the translation of health information for migrant and refugee communities. The project focused on adapting cancer prevention fact sheets into nine languages to improve clarity and cultural relevance. The aim was to share accurate information, while respecting cultural beliefs and supporting informed decision-making.

Challenge

Health information can lose impact when cultural context is overlooked. Early planning showed that some cancer topics carried strong sensitivities in different communities. Without careful adaptation, there was a risk that the translated materials could confuse readers or reinforce common myths.

Solution

Sylaba Translations began the project with community consultations to understand how cancer was viewed in each group. These discussions highlighted concerns that could affect how information was received. The translations were adjusted to address these beliefs directly, while keeping the information accurate and respectful.

In some Arabic and Indian communities, cancer was seen as contagious. In parts of the Greek community, it was viewed as incurable. The translated materials explained that cancer cannot be passed between people and that treatment and prevention options exist. Addressing these beliefs was essential; without correcting them, the prevention messages would not have been understood or acted on. A direct translation of the English resource would not have influenced screening or Sunsmart behaviours without first resolving these misconceptions.

By adapting the content to cultural context, the fact sheets became trusted resources. Communities could access information that was accurate and easier to understand, supporting stronger cancer prevention awareness.