Publications by authors named "Nelisha Sarmah"
Background: The breast cancer burden on the South African healthcare system is severe, with rural South African women often diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease. South Africa's rural areas are classified as low-resource settings with limited medical services and infrastructure. The impact of breast cancer on rural communities in South Africa requires ongoing research to better understand the severity of this disease among one of the most vulnerable populations.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe Sociocultural Influences on Breast Cancer Screening among Rural African Women in South Africa.
Int J Environ Res Public Health
November 2023
Article Synopsis
- Breast cancer cases are on the rise in South Africa, particularly among rural women who often seek help only when the disease is advanced due to societal stigma and misconceptions linking it to witchcraft and punishment.
- Cultural beliefs severely affect breast cancer screening behaviors, with women relying on traditional remedies and practices rather than seeking medical help, highlighting the importance of understanding local sociocultural contexts.
- The study suggests that implementing culturally sensitive health education programs, which involve traditional healers and community leaders, could improve breast cancer screening rates among these women.