부산대학교 도서관

Jamaica’s geographic location and place in modern history has made the country a nest for the development of rich and diversely informed cultural traditions and beliefs, and these traditions continue to influence attitudes toward health in Jamaican society today. Many Jamaican people rely on traditional knowledge, unique dietary practices, and the use of medicinal plants for their health care. Interestingly, many of these practices occur unknown to, and without guidance from, conventional health care providers, highlighting the lack of consensus and acceptance within the medical community of integrative approaches to care. In cancer care, this disparity is brought into even sharper focus. Equally important is the value of understanding the roles played by religion and spirituality and their influence on how people respond to a diagnosis of cancer. This chapter explores the cultural and religious factors modifying cancer care in Jamaica, providing a review of the current understanding of these factors and possible solutions to a culturally targeted holistic approach to cancer care.