To foster global knowledge sharing and support evidence-informed oncology nursing practice, Academic Express features recent research contributed by ISNCC members and colleagues worldwide. This issue presents a qualitative study by Dr. David Asakitogum and co-authors, exploring women’s experiences with traditional medicine in the treatment of cervical cancer in Accra, Ghana. By highlighting how cultural beliefs, access barriers, cost, and trust shape care-seeking decisions, this study offers valuable insights for oncology nurses striving to provide safe, respectful, and culturally responsive cancer care.
Why We Chose This Topic
TM including herbal medicine, complementary and alternative medicine, is deeply embedded in many African communities. However, TM use is often under‑reported in clinical settings, creating safety risks and care gaps. As oncology researchers, we chose this topic to amplify women’s voices and to better understand how TM, access barriers, and cost influence cancer‑related health decisions. Understanding these experiences is essential for delivering compassionate, culturally responsive, and safe cancer care.
What We Discovered
Interview findings revealed that women commonly used herbal medicines, prayer, and intravaginal insertion of substances to manage signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. Many initiated TM before receiving a definitive diagnosis, relying on symptom‑based advice from herbalists, friends, or faith leaders. Herbal preparations were often self‑prepared and administered orally, by bathing, or through vaginal douching. While some women reported symptom improvement, others experienced worsening conditions that delayed hospital treatment. Cost, accessibility, trust, and faith strongly influenced TM use.
Call to Action for Oncology Nursing Practice
Oncology nurses worldwide are uniquely positioned to lead safer, more culturally responsive cervical cancer care by openly addressing traditional medicine use in clinical practice. Nurses must routinely and respectfully assess patients’ use of herbal remedies, spiritual healing, and intravaginal practices, recognizing these as integral to women’s health beliefs rather than peripheral behaviors. By fostering non‑judgmental dialogue, providing targeted education to dispel harmful misconceptions, and partnering with community stakeholders such as traditional medicine practitioners and faith leaders, oncology nurses can reduce delays in diagnosis, prevent unsafe treatment practices, and advocate for patient safety. Embracing this expanded role is essential for advancing equity, improving outcomes, and strengthening global efforts toward cervical cancer prevention and control.
David Asakitogum, PhD, M.Phil., RN, Ataribuno Cervix Foundation, Ghana
Source：
Asakitogum, D. A., Ohene, L. A., & Aziato, L. (2026). Women’s experiences with traditional medicine for the treatment of cervical cancer: A qualitative study. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.
