1.Psychosocial status and stigma among cancer survivors
Irmuun B ; Zoljargal T ; Munkhbolor E ; Yagaanzul M ; Oyunsuren D ; Khishigsuren Z ; Khishig-Undrakh M ; Enkhee L ; Dulamsuren P ; Oyunsuren J ; Sarantsend Ch ; Bilguuntugs Z ; Baigalmaa S ; Bayasaakhuu Ya ; Tenuunjargal A
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;93(3):70-76
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.
2.Bullying and cyberbullying among Mongolian adolescents: Psychosocial consequences, behavioral outcomes, and protective factors
Oyunsuren D ; Irmuun B ; Khishig-Undrakh M ; Xiao Zhang ; Khishigsuren Z ; Andre Sourander
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;97(7):128-133
Background:
Adolescence is a critical period for physical, psychological, and social development. However, traditional school bullying and cyberbullying have emerged as major public health issues adversely affecting adolescent mental health.
Aim:
To estimate the prevalence of school bullying and cyberbullying among Mongolian adolescents, evaluate their impacts on psychosocial difficulties, self-harm, and suicidal ideation, and identify protective factors.
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted under the international Global Child and Adolescent Mental Health Study (GCAMHS) framework. A randomized sample of 2936 adolescents aged 11–17 years was recruited from public schools across Ulaanbaatar, provincial, and rural areas. Psychosocial difficulties were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests, independent t-tests, and multivariable logistic regression modeling to compute adjusted odds ratios (aOR).
Results:
Overall, 24.2% (n=710) of adolescents reported school bullying victimization, while 15.4% experienced cyberbullying victimization. Boys experienced higher rates of traditional school victimization than girls (28.5% vs. 20.4%, p < 0.001), whereas girls were significantly more vulnerable to cyberbullying victimization (17.4% vs. 13.1%, p=0.001). Bullied students showed significantly higher total SDQ difficulty scores compared to non-victims (18.08±6.15 vs. 10.86±5.20, p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that cyberbullying victimization was the strongest predictor for suicidal ideation (aOR=3.62, 95% CI: 2.79–4.69) and self-harm behavior (aOR=3.08, 95% CI: 2.41–3.93). School bullying victimization also increased suicidal ideation (aOR=2.79), while school safety perception served as an independent protective factor against suicidal ideation (aOR=0.64, 95% CI: 0.53–0.76).
Conclusion
Traditional and cyberbullying remain prevalent among Mongolian adolescents, with cyberbullying exerting a particularly strong negative impact on psychosocial distress, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. Enhancing school safety and implementing targeted psychosocial and digital safety interventions tailored to gender-specific needs are essential.
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