Implementing Measures to Overcome Stigma and Taboos Associated with the Diagnosis and Management of Cancers

Cancer is regarded as one of the global public health challenges and has been reported across all age groups worldwide. However, due to the presence of multiple barriers (like poor awareness, stigma and taboos associated with cancer, inadequate screening programs, etc.), the diagnosis of cancer is often delayed and this continues to remain a major public health challenge for the policymakers and healthcare providers. The delay in the diagnosis of cancer, attributed to the combined impact of stigma, myths, misconceptions, and sociocultural practices, leads to a loss of opportunity to achieve better patient outcomes. Acknowledging the adverse consequences of stigma and taboos, there is an immense need to improve the existing scenario with the help of public health interventions. Thus, the presence of stigma and taboos associated with cancer has significantly impacted the process of early cancer diagnosis and accounts for poor patient prognosis. The need of the hour is to create awareness among the general population with the help of culturally tailored measures and supplement them with a supportive healthcare environment to decrease stigma and facilitate early diagnosis.