A representação social acerca do câncer de boca na zona rural de Cajazeiras- PB.

Abstract

Cancer is the name given to the pathological changes that have in common the uncontrolled growth of cells mat invade tissues and organs. Rapidly dividing these cells tend to be very aggressive and uncontrollable, causing the formation of malignant tumors that can spread to other body regions. Oral cancer is mainly represented by squamous cell carcinoma (or squamous cell carcinoma) and represents a chronic and multifactorial desease. This study investigated the social representation of residents of countryside of Cajazeiras-PB about oral cancer. The social representation refers to a structured content on a relevant social phenomenon or object, which includes aspects of a symbolic nature, cognitive, affective and evaluative. To this end, we used theoretical method of production of meanings and discursive practices. We conducted a descriptive exploratory study with a qualitative approach. The survey used as a backdrop to the countryside of Cajazeiras-PB and the number of subjects was determined by the quality of the reports involved collection being closed after reaching satisfactory (n = 50), Respondents refer to oral cancer in their speeches expressing associations with fear, death and incurable disease. Some expressions have die connotation of fleeing, avoiding comments on the issue. Cultural aspects guide the representations about the mouth cancer and there is a need to undertake continuing education activities in order to promote a reinterpretation about the disease. Educational campaigns in turn should focus on the demystificatton of cancer, inviting people to participate in a problem that is of public health and not to promote the idea of an association between cancer and death, generating an image of individual impotence.