Psychosocial status and stigma among cancer survivors
- VernacularTitle:Хорт хавдрыг даван туулагчдын нийгэм-сэтгэл зүйн байдал болон гутаан гадуурхагдсан түвшинг судалсан дүн
- Author:
Irmuun B
1
;
Zoljargal T
2
;
Munkhbolor E
2
;
Yagaanzul M
2
;
Oyunsuren D
1
;
Khishigsuren Z
1
;
Khishig-Undrakh M
3
;
Enkhee L
4
;
Dulamsuren P
4
;
Oyunsuren J
5
;
Sarantsend Ch
1
;
Bilguuntugs Z
6
;
Baigalmaa S
7
;
Bayasaakhuu Ya
8
;
Tenuunjargal A
2
Author Information
1. Department of Mental Health, School of Medicine, MNUMS
2. National University of Mongolia
3. Mongolian National University of Education
4. National Cancer Center
5. University of the Humanities
6. MNUMS, Graduate School
7. Baganuur District Health Center
8. MNUMS, School of Medicine
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Discrimination;
stigmatization;
psychological adaptation;
social attitudes;
mixed method
- From:
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences
2026;93(3):70-76
- CountryMongolia
- Language:Mongolian
-
Abstract:
Background:Cancer is not only a physiological disease but also a complex condition that profoundly affects an individual’s psychological well-being and social relationships. Misconceptions about cancer within the public, including its association with death and the tendency to attribute blame to patients as being “personally responsible,” contribute to the development of social stigma among cancer survivors. This stigma negatively impacts patients’ engagement in treatment and their quality of life, highlighting the need to assess societal attitudes based on survivors’ lived experiences.
Aim:To examine the everyday lived experiences of cancer survivors, measure perceived social stigma, and identify psychological challenges as well as sources of support.
Materials and Methods:A mixed-methods design was employed. In the quantitative component, the Cancer Stigma Scale (CASS) and the Attitudes Toward Cancer Questionnaire (ATCQ) were translated and their content validity was evaluated by an expert panel using the Content Validity Index (CVI), followed by pilot testing to confirm feasibility (FVI). In the qualitative component, focus group discussions were conducted with cancer survivors, and coping ability was assessed using psychological assessment tools.
Result:A total of 207 participants (68% female; mean age 33.82±13.7 years) were included in the quantitative study. Participants experienced a moderate level of cancer-related stigma, with negative attitudes most strongly associated with perceptions of disease severity and individual responsibility. Qualitative findings revealed that physician communication and family support played a decisive role in psychological responses at the time of diagnosis disclosure. Excessive sympathy or social distancing increased psychological distress, whereas normal interpersonal interaction and realistic encouragement were identified as the most effective forms of support.
Conclusion:To improve psychosocial support for cancer survivors, it is essential to enhance healthcare professionals’ communication skills, promote accurate public understanding of cancer, and strengthen the sustainability of survivor support group activities.
- Full text:202609270139376477309_70-76_Хорт хавдрыг даван туулагчдын нийгэм-сэтгэл зүйн байдал болон гутаан гадуурхагдсан түвшинг судалсан дүн.pdf
