Barriers to Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment: A Pilot Qualitative Study of Patient and Practitioner Perspectives in Rural India
Authors
Akash Nagar
Community Medicine, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, IND
Divya Madamanchi
Community Medicine, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, IND
Gayatri Nair
Community Medicine, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, IND
Akhil Revikumar
Community Medicine, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, IND
Suman Ray
Community Medicine, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, IND
Sai Vajjala
Community Medicine, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, IND
Akhila S
Community Medicine, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, IND
Shubham Shivale
Community Medicine, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, IND
Keywords:
barriers, cancer treatment, cultural beliefs, cancer care facilities, health care infrastructure
Abstract
Introduction
Cancer remains a critical global health issue, particularly in developing countries, where timely diagnosis and effective treatment are often hindered by numerous barriers. These obstacles exacerbate the cancer burden and contribute to disparities in care. This study explores the barriers to cancer diagnosis and treatment from the perspectives of patients and healthcare providers in rural India, aiming to inform targeted interventions and improve outcomes.
Methods
This qualitative study was conducted from April to May 2024 at a tertiary cancer hospital in rural Western Maharashtra, India. Nine semi-structured interviews were conducted with five cancer patients and four healthcare practitioners. Participants were selected through purposive sampling until information saturation was achieved. Interviews were conducted in local languages and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key barriers and themes.
Results
The study identified several major themes related to barriers to cancer diagnosis and treatment. Patients highlighted a lack of awareness and understanding of cancer, significant financial burdens, challenges in accessing healthcare facilities, and emotional distress. Healthcare practitioners noted systemic issues, including inadequate diagnostic capabilities, insufficient healthcare infrastructure, and a shortage of specialized providers. Both groups emphasized the impact of cultural beliefs and stigma, as well as the limited support systems available to patients.
Conclusion
The findings highlight the complex interplay of factors contributing to delays in cancer diagnosis and treatment in rural India. Addressing these barriers requires multifaceted interventions, including increasing public awareness, improving healthcare infrastructure, and enhancing support systems for patients. Policy development should focus on these areas to reduce disparities and improve cancer care outcomes in resource-limited settings.
Keywords: barriers, cancer treatment, cultural beliefs, cancer care facilities, health care infrastructure
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