Social taboos: a formidable challenge in cancer care

Abstract

Taboo surrounding cancer has continued to be a stubborn and refractory public health issue especially in South Asian countries. Disparities in cancer care remain ubiquitous. Differences in the manner in which cancer is perceived, addressed, and treated might partly be a result of varying cultural influences. This case report highlights the clinical course of a female patient with neurofibromatosis who later developed a large facial malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour. The case particularly addresses the catastrophic impact of the ‘cancer-related social taboos’ on various dimensions of cancer care ranging from primary and secondary prevention to definitive management. The financial issues in low-income to medium-income groups as potential deterrents to optimum treatment have also been highlighted. Approach to the common challenges faced by an oncologist practising in a society plagued by misconceptions about health and disease and potential remedial measures to debunk these myths have also been discussed.