Cancer and Cultural Taboos in Turkey

In Turkey, dealing with cancer involves not only medical challenges but also navigating deep societal and cultural dynamics. Factors such as prejudices against immigrants, the influence of religious beliefs, and trust in alternative treatments play significant roles in shaping the patient experience. These elements often create critical barriers that need to be addressed at both individual and societal levels.

Prejudices Against Immigrants
Immigrants face both physical and social obstacles in accessing healthcare services. Economic hardships and the inability to reside within accessible proximity to quality healthcare pose significant challenges. Moreover, misinformation claiming that immigrants unjustly benefit from free state-sponsored healthcare fosters negative attitudes from both the public and healthcare workers (Önal & Keklik, 2016). This discrimination delays access to care, disrupts treatment processes, and diminishes the quality of healthcare received.

To combat these taboos, public misconceptions and myths about immigrants must be corrected through official channels and media platforms. Efforts to enhance societal sensitivity, including educational campaigns against violence and discrimination, could also prove effective. Additionally, training healthcare workers to adopt culturally sensitive approaches can facilitate better communication with immigrant patients.

The Impact of Religious Beliefs and Family Structure
Religious beliefs can provide strong spiritual support for individuals battling cancer. However, in some cases, these beliefs may hinder treatment, as patients may prioritize religious rituals over medical interventions, perceiving the disease as “divine punishment” (Pehlivan, Yıldırım & Fadıloğlu, 2013). Excessive fatalism can lead to rejection or postponement of treatment (Kissal & Beşer, 2011).

Women’s treatment processes are especially influenced by family dynamics and religious norms. Issues such as privacy concerns stemming from requirements like wearing a headscarf or avoiding contact with men can make it difficult for women to voice their needs. Decisions regarding treatment are often left to family elders or husbands, which may not always align with the patient’s best interests (Yazgı & Yılmaz, 2020).

Addressing these taboos may involve collaboration with religious and community leaders to emphasize that cancer is not a punishment. Training healthcare workers to respect and integrate patients’ cultural and religious sensitivities into treatment plans can help bridge the gap. Creating supportive environments and groups for female patients that align with cultural values and prioritize their privacy can also be a game-changer.

Excessive Trust in Alternative and Traditional Treatments
In Turkey, reliance on alternative treatments often stems from a lack of trust in modern medicine. Media personalities promoting unscientific remedies contribute to this trend, leading patients to prioritize methods such as herbal cures, prayers, or visits to traditional healers over scientifically validated medical treatments. This behavior not only delays proper treatment but also exacerbates health conditions.

For instance, unlicensed practitioners treating bone fractures and dislocations have been known to direct patients to hospitals only for diagnostic imaging, instructing them to bring the results back for further "treatment." These cases highlight the erosion of trust in the healthcare system while also demonstrating how these practices can waste critical time and reduce the effectiveness of treatments.

To mitigate this issue, communication campaigns highlighting the benefits of modern medicine and the risks of alternative methods should be launched. Accurate information on the limitations and dangers of unproven treatments can prevent patients from viewing them as primary solutions. Additionally, rebuilding public trust in the healthcare system through consistent and transparent communication between doctors and patients can encourage more informed treatment decisions.

References:

Önal, A., & Keklik, B. (2016). Challenges Faced by Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Accessing Healthcare Services: A Case Study in Isparta Province. Süleyman Demirel University Visionary Journal. Retrieved from: https://dergipark.org.tr/tr/download/article-file/218480

Kissal, A., & Beşer, A. (2011). Knowledge, Facilitators, and Perceived Barriers for Early Detection of Breast Cancer Among Elderly Turkish Women. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention.

Pehlivan, S., Yıldırım, Y., & Fadıloğlu, Ç. (2013). Cancer, Culture, and Nursing. Acıbadem University Health Sciences Journal, 4(4), October 2013. Retrieved from: http://journal.acibadem.edu.tr/tr/download/article-file/1701409

Yazgı, Z. G., & Yılmaz, M. (2020). The Role of Nurses in Coping with the Psychosocial Problems Experienced by Oncology Patients. Adnan Menderes University Faculty of Health Sciences Journal, 4(1), 60–70.