Awareness and Attitude of the Population of Karachi towards Stigma Associated with Cancer

Background: Cancer related stigma arises due to an amalgamation of certain myths, lack of understanding and religious and social beliefs that vary across different cultures. Despite the widespread availability of information regarding the characteristics of this disease and the ever-growing technological advances, cancer still remains a taboo with the cultural stereotype of its diagnosis being equivalent to a death warrant or penalty for unethical conduct.

Objectives: This research aims to assess the prevalence of cancer stigma in the general population of Karachi and explores the different perceptions and misunderstandings of people regarding cancer patients.

Methodology: It was a cross sectional study conducted at Ziauddin University from July to August 2020. The calculated sample size at 50% proportion was 385 and convenient sampling technique was used to recruit the required sample. Data regarding demographics was collected by a self-administered questionnaire and cancer stigma scale was used to identify the awareness and attitudes.

Results: n= 174 (60.8%) responded as yes. n=126 (44.1%) participants mentioned that their close relatives have suffered from cancer. When asked about cancer awareness most of the study participants seemed to be aware of diseases. However n= 115 (40.2%) responded that cancer ruins the life of the sufferer. When the participants were asked about cancer stigma, they disagreed and showed that they do not have any fear from cancer patients.

Conclusion: The population of Karachi was not having any stigma related to cancer and their attitude towards cancer patients according to the questionnaire seemed to be very positive and humanitarian.