Unique Needs of Latinas: Before and After Cancer Diagnosis

Most Latinas experience a poor quality of life due to the daily stressors they face. They are exposed to long periods of stress that develop into chronic problems such as cancer. Most Latinas are vulnerable and susceptible to developing cancer. They are often diagnosed at the later stages of cancer that lead to invasive treatments and death. Stress theories suggests that this population faces many challenges that contribute to their poor quality of life such as experiencing negative emotions (guilt, depression), cultural factors (using avoidance as a coping mechanism), religion (praying for the problem to go away; holding the belief they are being punished for their sins), and perceived discrimination. This population has unique health care needs that are not being considered by the health care systems that lead to delay in treatment, noncompliance, and ultimately death. This study was a review of selected articles published within the last five years that focused on this population, the relationship between stress and cancer, culture, and health care disparities.