A Critical Discourse Analysis of the Language of Stigmatization of Breast Cancer Patients in Nigeria
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21617159 |
|---|---|
| Authors | J O Oyeleke (0009-0001-4314-208X, University of Ibadan, corresponding author), Ronke Eunice Okhuosi (University of Ibadan), Omobolaji Ayandipo (0000-0002-6806-8015, University of Ibadan), O O Ayandipo (University of Ibadan, University College Hospital Ibadan) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 40 |
| Issue | 14 |
| Pages | 3048-3067 |
| Publication date | 2025-12-06 |
| Open Access | No |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Health Communication (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1041-0236 • E-ISSN: 1532-7027 |
| Publisher | Informa UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1080/10410236.2025.2492216 |
| PMID | 40257117 |
| OpenAlex | W4409624891 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 118 |
Breast cancer is a significant health concern globally, including in Nigeria, where its incidence is rising. An essential component of breast cancer care is the psychosocial wellbeing of patients, which is often shaped by the language used in healthcare and society. While some research has explored stigmatization of breast cancer patients, no study has focused on language as a tool for this stigmatization in Nigeria. This study examines how language perpetuates the stigmatization of breast cancer patients and explores ways to use language to improve their lives and health. Using Norman Fairclough's model of critical discourse analysis and a descriptive design, data was collected through interviews with 50 respondents at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, Nigeria. The study's discourse analysis revealed that stigmatization is perpetuated through language, including negative stereotypes, body shaming, spiritual interpretations, and derogatory terms. These discourses reflect broader social and cultural factors such as norms, beliefs, and power dynamics that reinforce stigmatization. The research highlights the effects of stigmatizing language, including denial, loss of femininity, shame, and fear of a new identity. The findings call for policies and interventions to reduce stigma, improve patient experiences, and raise public awareness of breast cancer
Breast cancer · Cancer · Critical discourse analysis · Discourse analysis · Linguistics · Political science · Sociology · Discourse Analysis in Language Studies · Global Cancer Incidence and Screening · Health Literacy and Information Accessibility · Medicine · Psychology · Internal Medicine
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| Highly cited | No |
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