Stigma and Related Factors in Iranian People with Cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Stigma is one of the psychosocial and intercultural issues that can be found in chronic diseases,<br />including cancer. Stigma may reduce communication due to social isolation, feeling shame and others' judgment, and<br />these factors make far from professional services and poor health outcomes in individuals with cancer. Assessment<br />of stigma can help determine and recognize the overall levels of stigma in the community and identify situations that<br />need intervention. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine stigma and related factors in individuals with<br />cancer in Iran. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 142 patients with cancer selected<br />via convenience sampling method in two hospitals affiliated to Shahid Beheshti Medical University. A demographic<br />as well as clinical record form and “A questionnaire for measuring attitudes toward cancer (cancer stigma) ‑ Patients<br />version" by Cho et al., (2013) were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and<br />regression analysis. Results: More than one quarter of participants (26.1%) had negative attitudes toward cancer<br />and high stigma score>= 2.5. More than half of the participants (57.5%) agreed that their job performance would be<br />reduced even after treatment. 54.5% of the patients considered it difficult to regain health after being diagnosed. There<br />was a significant correlation between the stigma score and the level of education (p= 0.033, OR=0.78). Conclusion:<br />The results showed that stigma in dimensions of impossibility of recovery and stereotypical aspects of cancer were<br />more common. These findings can lead to interventions and educational efforts on cancer coherence which may help<br />in treatment, rehabilitation and return to normal life.