“It Is Better to Live Than to Die”: A Qualitative Study on Perceptions of Radiotherapy Among Patients with Cancer in Southern Ethiopia
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Introduction
Radiotherapy is one of the cornerstones of cancer treatment; however, access remains limited in many low-resource settings, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, such as Ethiopia. Recent efforts by the Ethiopian government have aimed to strengthen the oncologic infrastructure, including the building of new radiotherapy centers. Many non-structural barriers continue to exist, negatively impacting access. A better characterization of perceptions of radiotherapy is needed to guide future efforts in improving cancer outcomes.
Objective
This study aimed to explore perceptions of radiotherapy, including barriers to accessing radiotherapy, among patients with cancer receiving cancer treatment in southern Ethiopia.
Method
We conducted an explanatory qualitative study among patients with cancer receiving treatment at the Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Cancer Treatment Center (HUSCH-CTC) from March to May 2024. Data were collected through in-depth interviews guided by an open-ended interview guide and audio-recorded with participants’ consent. Transcripts from the interviews were then coded, and thematic analysis was performed.
Result
To our knowledge, this was the first qualitative study on patients’ with cancer perceptions of radiotherapy in southern Ethiopia. We found that participants generally held negative views about radiotherapy, which were shaped by multiple factors: concerns about side effects, uncertainty regarding treatment outcomes, and circulating misinformation and misconceptions within the community. A lack of or limited understanding of high-energy radiation (or X-ray) among fellow patients and the general public further reinforced these negative perceptions.
Conclusion
The findings from this study further support the need to empower patients via education and improve communications between healthcare providers and patients about radiotherapy and cancer treatments in general. Facilitation of education and dialogue is likely to increase awareness, dispel misconceptions, and thereby positively influence patient perceptions, informed consent, and adherence to radiotherapy to improve cancer outcomes.
