Cancer Fatalism

Abstract

Cancer fatalism--the belief that death is inevitable when cancer is present--has been identified as a barrier to participation in cancer screening, detection, and treatment. Yet this literature has not been reviewed in a comprehensive and systematic manner. Therefore, this literature review addressed (1) philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of cancer fatalism; (2) relationships among demographic factors, cancer fatalism, and cancer screening; (3) the role of cancer fatalism for patients diagnosed with cancer; and (4) intervention strategies. Most of the reviewed studies were descriptive or correlational, did not have an explicit theoretical framework, had varied definitions of fatalism, and reported screening as "intent to screen" or as "past screening behaviors." Review of the studies suggests that cancer fatalism develops over time and is most frequently reported among medically underserved persons and those with limited knowledge of cancer. Cancer fatalism may be modified through culturally relevant interventions that incorporate spirituality. Emphasis must be placed on recognizing the role of cancer fatalism when planning health promotion activities. Future studies should focus on the consistent measurement of cancer fatalism and testing intervention strategies.

Knowledge and perception of breast cancer and its treatment among Malaysian women: Role of religion

“…They may treat their god as the protector who will guide and keep them alive [15]. Additionally, the fatalistic beliefs of women that stressful events such as breast cancer were 'fated' and unavoidable may also result in the refusal to seek any knowledge and treatment about their illness [16].…”

Screening for prevention and early diagnosis of cancer.

“…A negative screening result is also perceived as an important indicator of safety from a greatly feared disease, and again, the belief that screening will provide peace of mind is associated with higher likelihood of participation (Cantor, Volk, Cass, Gilani, & Spann, 2002;Power et al, 2009). In contrast, fatalistic beliefs-that health events are out of individual control or that cancer is always fatal-have been associated with lower uptake (Chavez, Hubbell, Mishra, & Valdez, 1997;Powe & Finnie, 2003;Schueler et al, 2008;Vernon, 1997).…”

Communication Patterns in Korean Families during BRCA Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer

“…Some elderly relatives expressed cancer fatalism as described by Powe and Finnie. 19) They define cancer fatalism as the belief that death is inevitable. That belief is a barrier to participation in cancer screening, detection and treatment.…”

“…That belief is a barrier to participation in cancer screening, detection and treatment. From the literature review, Powe and Finnie 19) conclude that cancer fatalism develops over time and is most frequently reported among medically underserved persons. It also occurs when people have limited knowledge of cancer.…”