Abstract

Religious beliefs play a profound role in shaping health behaviors and medical decision-making among patients in 
many African societies. In Eastern Nigeria, where Christianity and traditional spirituality coexist, religion often 
influences how individuals perceive illness, seek care, and adhere to medical treatment. This review examines the 
intersection between religion and cancer treatment decisions among patients in Eastern Nigeria. It explores how 
religious interpretations of cancer as a spiritual affliction, divine punishment, or test of faith influence treatment
seeking behaviors, adherence to biomedical interventions, and reliance on faith-based healing. The paper also 
highlights the implications of these beliefs on early diagnosis, treatment outcomes, and patient–provider 
communication. Understanding these dynamics is vital for developing culturally sensitive health education, 
fostering collaboration between religious leaders and medical practitioners, and improving cancer care outcomes in 
the region.