The Influence of Cultural Factors on Cancer Patients: A Study of Treatment Choices, Health Beliefs, and Recovery Processes in East Asian Countries

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the impact of cultural factors on cancer patients in East Asian countries, focusing on how these factors influence treatment choices, health beliefs, and recovery processes. East Asia, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions, presents a unique context where cultural beliefs and practices significantly shape health behaviors and medical decision making. Through qualitative and quantitative analyses, this research explores the ways in which cultural values, social norms, and traditional medicine practices affect the choices cancer patients make regarding their treatment, their perceptions of illness, and their overall recovery journey. The findings highlight the critical role of cultural understanding in enhancing patient care and improving health outcomes, offering valuable insights for healthcare providers and policymakers aiming to deliver culturally sensitive cancer care in East Asian settings.