Cultural Meaning of Cancer Suffering

Abstract

It is not possible to understand the cancer experience independent from the specific culture. The history, culture, related values, and traditions shape the experience of Turkish cancer patients. This article aims to review the current Turkish literature on the psychological and psychosocial effects of cancer and its related burden. The psychological and psychosocial burden of cancer is discussed. The review clearly documents that an interdisciplinary approach that combines oncologic and psychiatric treatments is required for decreasing the emotional, physiological, and social burden of cancer in Turkey.