Cephas Health Research Initiative shared a post on LinkedIn:
‘The Unseen Battle: Identity, Faith, and Breast Cancer in Nigeria
At Cephas Health Research Initiative (a.k.a. Cephas), we know breast cancer in Nigeria is more than a medical diagnosis—it’s a profound journey that reshapes a woman’s identity, faith, and future.
Our latest research, published in leading journals, reveals deep psychosocial realities behind the statistics:
1. A Journey from ‘Valued’ to ‘Devalued’
We traced how self-identity transforms:
- Before: Women saw themselves as complete, valued individuals.
- After: Many emerge feeling ‘damaged’ and ‘devalued’—struggling with altered femininity and self-worth post-mastectomy.
2. Spiritual Belief vs. Medical Reality
A critical gap exists:
- Women’s View: Breast cancer is often seen as an ‘evil attack’ or spiritual arrow, leading first to traditional or faith healing.
- Clinical Reality: This belief delays biomedical care, resulting inlate-stage diagnosis for most.
3.The Fears Behind the Delays
Why the hesitation?
- Loss of Femininity and Marriageability: ‘Who will marry a woman without breasts?’
- Fertility Concerns: Fear that treatment ends childbearing hopes.
- Dependence: Lack of insurance and family pressures often dictate the path to care.
The Way Forward
Awareness alone isn’t enough. We must:
- Integrate substantial psychosocial support into cancer care.
- Bridge understanding between spiritual beliefs and medical guidance.
- Advocate for patient-centered, holistic care that addresses these deep fears.
At Cephas, we are committed to Caring For The Whole Person — turning research into compassionate action for Nigerian women.
Read our full studies.”
Title: The Social Reality of Meaning Making: The Dichotomyin the Illness Narratives of Women With Breast Cancer and Biomedical Practitioners in Nigeria
Authors: Aisha Abimbola Adaranijo, Jimoh Amzat, Dejo Abdulrahman, Kehinde Kazeem Kanmodi
Read the Full Article on Psycho-Oncology: Journal of the Psychological, Social and Behavioral Dimensions of Cancer.
Title: Living With a New Normal: Self-Identities of Women With Breast Cancer in Nigeria
Authors: Aisha Abimbola Adaranijo, Jimoh Amzat, Dejo Abdulrahman, Kehinde Kazeem Kanmodi
Read the Full Article on Cancer Reports
More posts about Breast Cancer.