Communication in cancer care: psycho-social, interactional, and cultural issues. A general overview and the example of India
Authors
Santosh Chaturvedi
Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
Fay Strohschein
Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
Gayatri Saraf
Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
Carmen Loiselle
Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
Keywords:
communication, cancer, psycho-oncology, culture
Abstract
Communication is a core aspect of psycho-oncology care. This article examines key psychosocial, cultural, and technological factors that affect this communication. Drawing from advances in clinical work and accumulating bodies of empirical evidence, the authors identify determining factors for high quality, efficient, and sensitive communication and support for those affected by cancer. Cancer care in India is highlighted as a salient example. Cultural factors affecting cancer communication in India include beliefs about health and illness, societal values, integration of spiritual care, family roles, and expectations concerning disclosure of cancer information, and rituals around death and dying. The rapidly emerging area of e-health significantly impacts cancer communication and support globally. In view of current globalization, understanding these multidimensional psychosocial, and cultural factors that shape communication are essential for providing comprehensive, appropriate, and sensitive cancer care.
Keywords: communication, cancer, psycho-oncology, culture
Author Biographies
Fay Strohschein, Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
Segal Cancer Center, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
Carmen Loiselle, Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
Segal Cancer Center, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
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