Abstract

Cancer remains a growing public health challenge in Eastern Nigeria, where cultural beliefs, religious 
interpretations, and community narratives significantly influence health-seeking behaviors and treatment outcomes. 
This review explores how traditional perceptions framing cancer as a spiritual curse, divine punishment, or moral 
consequence contribute to delayed diagnosis, reliance on alternative therapies, and non-adherence to biomedical 
treatment. Religious institutions and faith-based interventions, while providing psychosocial support, can 
inadvertently reinforce misconceptions and stigma when unaccompanied by accurate health education. Community 
narratives portraying cancer as incurable or socially ostracizing further exacerbate fear, isolation, and delayed care. 
The study emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive strategies, including engagement of traditional and 
religious leaders, integration of healers into formal healthcare pathways, media advocacy, and patient support 
networks. Bridging biomedical knowledge with local cultural contexts is critical for reducing stigma, promoting 
early detection, improving treatment adherence, and enhancing overall cancer outcomes in the region.