A Sociological Study on the Palliative Care given to Cancer Patients in Mangalore City

Palliative care has emerged as a vital component of holistic healthcare, particularly for cancer patients requiring support that extends beyond medical cure. This study examines palliative care in Mangalore from a sociological perspective, focusing on awareness, accessibility, and institutional support. A sample of 60 cancer patients receiving palliative care was surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Findings revealed that 85% of patients were above 40 years of age, 60% were female, and the most common cancers were breast (30%), lung (20%), and oral cancer (15%). Only 25% of patients were aware of palliative care before treatment, demonstrating significant knowledge gaps. Government hospitals provided care for 50% of respondents, private hospitals 40%, and NGOs 10%. The study highlights emotional strain on caregivers, financial challenges, cultural attitudes toward suffering, and uneven institutional support. It recommends expansion of community-based services, greater public awareness, and gender-sensitive interventions. The research contributes to localized health policy development and supports the need for more inclusive palliative care frameworks in Mangalore.