Myths, beliefs, and attitude toward cancer among the family caregivers of cancer patients: A community-based, mixed-method study in rural Tamil Nadu

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Family support is one of the most crucial components of cancer care. The familial beliefs and myths associated with cancer can seriously affect the quality of life and treatment outcome of cancer patients. This study intends to explore the prevailing myths, beliefs, and attitude toward cancer among the family caregivers of cancer patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A community-based, exploratory, mixed-method study was conducted among family caregivers of cancer patients in Cuddalore and Villupuram districts of Tamil Nadu. Content analysis method was used for in-depth interviews. Sociodemographic characteristics and attitude of the study participants were described using proportions. RESULTS: A common myth about causation of cancer was that it was contagious or of infective origin. Disbelief in tobacco’s causation of cancer was found among the study participants. Family members’ support was viewed as an essential component for cancer patients. Majority of the participants in the quantitative survey showed favorable attitude toward cancer patients. The common misconception about cancer treatment was that surgery/biopsy can spread cancer and herbal products can cure cancer. CONCLUSION: Even though a majority of the participants showed favorable attitude toward their cancer patients, false beliefs and myths regarding causation and treatment of cancer are prevalent in the community.