| Author: | Chen, Xiaofei |
| Title: | Psychosocial aspects of oral cancer in China |
| Advisors: | Occhipinti, Stefano (ENGL) |
| Degree: | DALS |
| Year: | 2025 |
| Department: | Faculty of Humanities |
| Pages: | 1 volume (various pagings) : color illustrations |
| Language: | English |
| Abstract: | Oral cancer presents unique psychosocial challenges due to visible facial scars, particularly in the Chinese context, where cultural norms shape perceptions of illness. This study examines the nature, predictors, and psychosocial effects of stigma perceived by Chinese oral cancer patients. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative analysis of 93 patients with qualitative insights from interviews with 11 patients and 3 caregivers, guided by the Health Stigma and Discrimination Framework. Quantitative results revealed that the Cancer Stigma Scale (CASS; α = 0.78) indicated strong discomfort and fear, with the Avoidance and Severity subscales scoring highest. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS; α = 0.98) showed severe psychological distress, particularly in the Anxiety (mean = 11.4) and Depression (mean = 12.0) subscales. Cancer myths significantly contributed to stigma, especially in Avoidance and Awkwardness. Sociodemographic and behavioral factors strongly influenced stigma experiences: higher education increased stigma awareness, while social support from caregivers reduced internalized stigma. Qualitative findings revealed patients’ reluctance to share emotions, self-imposed guilt over perceived self-inflicted harm, and economic concerns about treatment costs. Cultural norms, such as Mianzi ("face"), amplified stigma, particularly among male patients, who feared social judgment and actively concealed their illness. In contrast, caregivers were more willing to disclose emotional burdens, highlighting the role of familial support in mitigating stigma. These findings addressed the need for culturally sensitive interventions to reduce stigma, dispel cancer-related misconceptions, and lower emotional barriers to care. The study contributes to applied language sciences by demonstrating how stigma is shaped and communicated through semi-structured interviews. By addressing these challenges, the research aims to improve patient-provider relationships, enhance patients’ quality of life, and strengthen healthcare system services. |
| Rights: | All rights reserved |
| Access: | restricted access |
Files in This Item:
| File | Description | Size | Format | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8798.pdf | For All Users (off-campus access for PolyU Staff & Students only) | 8.93 MB | Adobe PDF | View/Open |
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