Stigma can have severe consequences for cancer patients:
1. Emotional Impact: Stigma can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and depression. This emotional burden can be as challenging as the physical symptoms of cancer. 2. Social Isolation: Stigmatized individuals may withdraw from social interactions, leading to loneliness and a lack of support. 3. Delayed Diagnosis and Treatment: Fear of being stigmatized can prevent individuals from seeking early diagnosis and timely treatment, worsening their prognosis. 4. Economic Impact: Discrimination in the workplace can lead to job loss and financial instability for cancer patients.
