Cancer care in Meghalaya faces significant social and cultural challenges, according to a study by the Indian Institute of Public Health in Shillong, the Department of Radiation Oncology at Civil Hospital Shillong, and the state’s Department of Health and Family Welfare. Published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research, the study was conducted by leading researchers including Barilin Dkhar and Carmenia Khongwir, among others.
While India represents 7% of the global cancer burden, Meghalaya, part of the Northeastern region, has the country’s highest cancer incidence rate. Notably, cancer ranks among the top five causes of death in the state, with oesophageal cancer most prevalent among both sexes, followed by hypopharyngeal in men and oral cancer in women.
The study identifies cultural beliefs as major barriers to timely cancer diagnosis and treatment. Traditional beliefs in concepts like bih (poison) and skai (evil eye) often lead to the perception of cancer as fate-driven, which deters individuals from seeking medical care. Many patients initially turn to traditional healers, delaying critical interventions. Stigma further complicates the situation, with patients, particularly women with breast or cervical cancer, hesitant to disclose their diagnosis for fear of social judgement.
Economic hardships add another layer of complexity. Poor healthcare infrastructure, challenging terrain, and the need for travel increase the financial burden of treatment. The Meghalaya Health Insurance Scheme provides some financial support, but gaps in coverage still exist, often forcing families to seek loans or community aid. Misdiagnoses are common, and many patients must seek advanced care outside the state, facing additional logistical and financial hurdles.
The study emphasizes the need for a culturally integrated approach to cancer care. This includes training traditional healers to identify early symptoms, launching community awareness campaigns to reduce stigma, and augmenting healthcare infrastructure. By bridging traditional and modern medicine, and enhancing mental health support, Meghalaya can improve cancer care outcomes significantly.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/01/06/cultural-beliefs-a-challenge-for-cancer-care-in-mlaya-study/
Category : MEGHALAYA
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Publish Date: 2025-01-06 04:21:00
