Cancer disclosure: a cross-cultural research Brazil-Spain

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine cross-cultural aspects of the disclosure of cancer diagnosis in Brazilian and Spanish patients. Method: A qualitative research was carried out in which 28 chemotherapy patients (14 Brazilian and 14 Spanish) were interviewed. Content analysis identified three thematic categories: 1) How the diagnosis was disclosured; 2) Context in which the diagnosis was disclosured; 3) Who disclosured the diagnosis. Results: Particularities in the diagnosis disclosure between the two countries was found. In Brazil, it still happens that patient can be referred to an oncologist without a satisfactory explanation about his health status. Although there are reports of diagnosis disclosure in the appropriate context (consultation), also there are reports informal disclosure (by telephone), without an adequate environment for the patient to be welcomed and able to express their fears and doubts. Conclusion: It is necessary to improve the professional training to improve communication skills and health education to treat cancer patients.