Risk information may lead to misconceptions about cancer patients’ lifestyle
Information about the link between lifestyle habits and cancer risk can create preconceived notions about cancer patients' lifestyles. The findings of a study published in Archives of Public Health suggest that while risk information is valuable and gives hope for the future, it can also cause feelings of self-blame.
Åsa Grauman is the lead author of the study.
Breast cancer and colorectal cancer are two of the most common cancers in Sweden. The risk of being affected is in turn affected by how we live. However, information that lifestyle habits can increase the risk of cancer can make patients think about whether they themselves contributed to causing their cancer. Åsa Grauman, researcher at the Centre for Research Ethics & Bioethics at Uppsala University, led the interview study exploring 23 breast or colorectal cancer patients’ perceptions on risk information.
“Many patients feel that risk information is one-sided, creating preconceived ideas about the lifestyle of cancer patients,” says Åsa Grauman. Some participants described feelings of shame, and believing that others assumed that their cancer was due to poor lifestyle choices, even if they live their lives healthier than most. According to Åsa Grauman, overweight participants in particular, felt as if they were judged by healthcare providers. This is a double burden to bear as a cancer patient. The results underscore the need for more nuance in communication about cancer risks, highlighting that while lifestyle is important, it’s not the only factor. Another important finding is that the patients in the study suffering from colorectal cancer felt that there is a greater stigma attached to cancer in the bowel than breast cancer. Participants called for public information initiatives to reduce taboo and stigma, similar to the national awareness month for breast cancer.
Despite the challenges, the participants generally viewed lifestyle-related information as beneficial. The patients expressed that it was important to be able to influence their health during and after cancer treatment in order to feel well. However, many felt a lack of lifestyle support and psychosocial care and suggested patient support groups led by the healthcare system.
“Balancing information involves providing transparent, evidence-based information while considering individual and social contexts, avoiding stigma and blame, and supplementing information with support,” Åsa Grauman concludes.
Do you want to know more? Take a look at the study: Grauman, Å., Sundell, E., Johansson, J.V. et al. Perceptions of lifestyle-related risk communication in patients with breast and colorectal cancer: a qualitative interview study in Sweden. Arch Public Health 82, 154 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13690-024-01387-1
By Fanny Klingvall