The ‘evil arrow’ myths and misconceptions of cancer at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Myths and misconceptions have significant impact on the presentation and management of cancers globally. One such example includes 'evil arrow' myths. There is limited knowledge regarding the role of misconceptions in late presentation for management in developing countries. The percentage increase in cancers in many African countries is higher than that in developed countries. Evil arrow is the seeming attack of the enemy in a supernatural version as a result of wizardry.Aim: To evaluate the relationship of common myths and misconceptions among cancer patients, their treatment and delay of presentation to the hospital. Setting:The study was undertaken in a tertiary health facility in a cosmopolitan tropical state.Method: This is a randomised observational survey study carried out among patients and their relatives referred to the Radiotherapy Clinic of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital for treatment (a lower-income mixed metropolitan setting). A self-administered questionnaire was used. Patient consent was obtained. Data were analysed with Epi Info 2002 software and the results were presented using frequency tables and charts.Results: About 57 were patients (67%) and 28 were patients' relatives (33%). The age distribution of participants showed 31-40 years (31.8%; 27) as the highest number, while 11-20 years (1.2%; 1) was the lowest number. A slight female preponderance of 58.8% (50) was observed. High incidence of those with the opinion that cause of cancer is unknown represented 63% (54). Over 65% of patients presented with advanced disease. The reasons for late presentation to the hospital included lack of funds in 23.5% of patients (20). Conclusion:Lack of funds, myths and misconception are main reasons why patients presented late to hospital. There is a need to emphasise debunking innumerable myths and misconceptions associated with cancer.

Factors associated with noncompliance of sodium restriction in hypertensive and heart failure patients at the National Hospital of Cotonou, Benin

“…41 In Nigeria, routine cancer screening programs are largely unavailable, 42 and there are various myths that surround cancer especially as it relates to prevention and treatment. 43,44 All of the above factors are probable reasons for these findings. We recommend that cancer awareness and screening need to take a more aggressive form in Nigeria as symptomatic presentation also increases cancer-related morbidity and mortality.…”

<p>A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study on Awareness and Belief of People About Cancer in Southern Ethiopia: Special Focus on Breast and Cervical Cancers</p>

“…This is similar to the findings of Birhanu and his colleagues that showed very low awareness of cervical cancer existed in the community in south western parts of Ethiopia. 7 In addition, sexual behavior of an individual has direct and or indirect association with certain forms of cancer development. 53 Thus, the sexual characteristics of the study participants were also explored in this study.…”

“…There are myths and misconceptions about cancer by many societies; particularly in less advanced countries. [6][7][8][9][10] This could be one of the barriers to overcome the devastating effects of cancer in the society. The myths and misconceptions can only be ended through awareness development by training the communities that cancer is not contagious and not a curse.…”

Social and Institutional Support in Breast Cancer Management among Elderly Women in Nigeria

“…Unfortunately, when confronted with breast cancer, most women in Nigeria usually seek help from religious institutions more than medical attention, leading to late detection and a high mortality rate. According to Ololade et al [18], they seek advice from an imam or a pastor, requesting for prayers for healing but do not seek anything else not just because of their faith in prayers but because they may not be able to afford treatment, thereby resigning to fate and hoping for the best.…”