A caregivers' perspective on social reintegration and stigma of childhood cancer survivors in Kenya

• DOI: 10.1002/pon.6345
• Publication Date: 2024-05-06T11:03:50Z
• Authors: Jesse Lemmen; Susan Mageto; Festus Njuguna; Nancy Midiwo; Terry A. Vik; Gertjan Kaspers; Saskia Mostert
• Keywords: Stigma; Childhood Cancer; Social stigma

Abstract Objectives Childhood cancer survivors' social reintegration may be hampered in low and middle‐income countries. The nature extent of challenges prejudices that survivors encounter such settings are largely unknown. This study explores caregivers' perspectives on stigmatization Kenyan childhood survivors. Methods Caretakers (<18 years) were interviewed using mixed‐methods questionnaires during home or clinic visits between 2021 2022. Stigma was assessed with an adjusted Social Impact Scale risk factors investigated. Results 54 (median age 11 interviewed. Families' income (93%) decreased since start treatment. (44%) often lost their jobs. Financial struggles (88%) a burden provoked conflicts within communities (31%). School fees for siblings became unaffordable (52%). Families received negative responses (26%) left avoided (13%) by community members after disclosure. Survivors families discriminated against because the child perceived fragile, considered fatal, contagious, witchcraft. repeated school levels (58%) excluded from activities (19%) bullied (13%). Performance limitations daily ( p = 0.019), male sex 0.032), solid tumors 0.056) short time treatment completion 0.047) associated increased stigma. recommended educational programs schools to raise awareness about curability. Conclusions experienced difficulties re‐entry society. Increasing survivorship should facilitate prevent stigmatization.