Socio-cultural beliefs and perceptions that influence diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer among women in Ghana: evidence from a scoping review

Abstract

Abstract Background Breast cancer is currently the most diagnosed cancer in Ghana and the leading cause of cancer mortality among women. Little published empirical evidence exists on cultural beliefs and perceptions about breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in Ghana. This scoping review sought to map evidence on the sociocultural beliefs and perceptions that influence the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer among women. Methods This review was conducted following the methodological guideline of JBI and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. The literature search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL via EBSCOhost, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Embase. Studies that were conducted on cultural, religious, and spiritual beliefs were included. The included studies were screened by title, abstract, and full text by three reviewers. Data was charted and results were represented in a narrative synthesis form. Results This review included 15 studies. Three categories were identified after the synthesis of the charted data. The categories included: cultural, religious, and spiritual beliefs and misconceptions about breast cancer. The cultural beliefs included ancestral punishment and curses from the gods for wrongdoing leading to breast cancer. Spiritual beliefs about breast cancer were attributed to spiritual or supernatural forces. People had the religious belief that breast cancer was a test from God and resulted in prayers for healing. Conclusion This study adduces evidence of the sociocultural beliefs that impact on untimely diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer among women in Ghana. Taking into consideration the diverse cultural and traditional beliefs about breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, there is a compelling need for nationwide public education on breast cancer to clarify the myths and misconceptions about the disease. We recommend that sociocultural factors influencing breast cancer diagnosis and treatment be incorporated into breast cancer awareness programs, education, and intervention programs in Ghana.