Dados do Resumo

Título

Patients' perception of the word 'cancer' at the time of diagnosis: a systematic review

Introdução

The word “cancer” has been stigmatized as threatening, and alternative terms are often used to soften this concept. However, this has been changing over the years, as patients now have greater decision-making power regarding the treatment to be adopted. Additionally, the interpretation of the word “cancer” has evolved as knowledge about the disease has increased. The understanding of the word “cancer” also varies across different cultures worldwide, with this difference standing out in less developed countries.

Objetivo

The aim of this systematic review is to identify the definition of the word “cancer” and the various factors that influence this concept from the patients' perspective at the time of diagnosis. Additionally, it seeks to describe the types of concerns and feelings that a cancer diagnosis evokes in patients facing an uncertain future.

Métodos

A search strategy using keywords and their synonyms related to cancer, diagnosis, patients, and perception was conducted in Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar (a grey literature database) until June 26, 2024. The studies were uploaded into EndNote 20 software (EndNote®, Clarivate Analytics), and duplicate records were removed. The titles and abstracts of all identified studies were screened, excluding articles that did not meet the eligibility criteria using the online software Rayyan® (Qatar Computing Research Institute). The eligible articles were selected after reading the full text, and the primary reasons for exclusion were recorded. From the included studies, a data sheet was created using Microsoft Excel to extract relevant data (study characteristics, type of cancer, sociodemographic features, perception of the word 'cancer', and factors influencing these perceptions).

Resultados

Of the 24,150 articles found, 1,200 have been selected for further review in phase two. From the articles analyzed so far, we have identified differences in the concept of cancer across various cultures and countries, including China, Japan, the United States, Germany, Australia, India, Italy, and Brazil. Additionally, we observed differences in the approach to cancer between younger and older individuals, as well as between Black and White populations. Regarding the factors that influence the perception of the word “cancer” in diagnosed patients, we identified psychological factors such as fear, anxiety, depression, and uncertainty about the future: “a cancer diagnosis is inherently catastrophic, often leading to an existential crisis, feelings of helplessness, and isolation”. Cultural factors, such as religion and spirituality, were found to promote well-being and serve as important tools for stress relief. Socioeconomic factors, including a low perception of risk factors, poor communication with doctors, and difficulty accessing treatments, were noted to influence cancer perception, particularly in low-middle income countries.

Conclusões

Cancer carries myths and stigma, influenced by socioeconomic factors, but there are opportunities to change perceptions. Raising awareness through education and clear communication is key to addressing stigma and promoting informed decision-making.

Financiador do resumo

This work was supported by the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP), through a Research Grant - Cooperation Agreements / EU/Horizon 2020 - Thematic Research Project: Grant 2018/26297-3, São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP).

Palavras Chave

Câncer; perception; Diagnosis