Asian communities stigmatize cancer

 

The stigma surrounding cancer within South Asian communities can be deeply entrenched, leading to misconceptions, blame, and avoidance. In many South Asian languages, there is no direct translation for the word "cancer," contributing to a lack of understanding and discussion about the disease.

Dr. Nighat Arif, a GP from Buckinghamshire, notes that cancer is often viewed as taboo within South Asian communities, with individuals being blamed if they receive a cancer diagnosis. This blame can manifest in harmful ways, such as attributing the illness to karma or personal wrongdoing.

Several women shared their experiences of facing stigma and misconceptions after being diagnosed with cancer. Veronica Mehta, diagnosed with breast cancer while pregnant, encountered hurtful comments implying that her illness was deserved. Similarly, Sbba Siddique faced criticism for openly discussing her ovarian cancer diagnosis, with some labeling her as "shameless" for sharing her story.

Preeti Kallha, a cancer coach, observed two distinct reactions within the South Asian community: avoidance or fatalism. Some family members distanced themselves from her, while others refused to acknowledge the diagnosis altogether.

Bhavika Patel encountered resistance when she sought support after her breast cancer diagnosis, with some individuals advising her to keep her illness a secret. The stigma surrounding cancer often leads to unfounded beliefs about its causes, such as heredity or dietary factors.

Despite these challenges, some individuals, like Meera Shah and Priyanka Pandya-Bhatt, have chosen to openly share their cancer journeys to raise awareness and combat stigma. However, cultural and religious beliefs can still pose barriers to discussing cancer openly, especially regarding women's health issues.

Claire Taylor, chief nursing officer at Macmillan Cancer Support, emphasizes the importance of addressing cultural stigma and promoting open dialogue about cancer within South Asian communities. Education and awareness initiatives are crucial in dispelling myths and encouraging individuals to seek support and information without fear of judgment or shame. Dr. Arif echoes this sentiment, advocating for open conversations to tackle stigma and misinformation surrounding cancer.