In a challenging situation, Dr. Nam, Deputy Head of Abdominal Surgery Department 1 at K Hospital in Hanoi, faced reluctance from a patient with stomach cancer to undergo surgery. Despite explaining the benefits of surgery in prolonging the patient’s life, the man opted for herbal medicine instead. This is a common issue that many doctors face and can lead to tragic consequences for patients.
In another case, an 84-year-old man with colon cancer refused treatment out of fear of surgery. His condition worsened over time, and when his family finally brought him to the hospital in a critical condition, it was too late to save him. The doctor reflects on the challenges of convincing patients to trust modern medicine and the importance of creating trust between doctors and patients.
Patients in Vietnam often refuse treatment due to a lack of understanding of their condition and traditional beliefs in alternative medicine. High cancer rates in the country add urgency to addressing this issue, with over 300,000 people affected by the disease each year. Economic challenges also play a role in patients’ decisions to forgo treatment as many cannot afford costly therapies.
Despite advancements in cancer treatments such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy, many patients do not have access to these options due to financial constraints. Doctors emphasize the importance of staying committed to medical treatments and not abandoning care prematurely as this can lead to worsening health outcomes and increased risks of death.
It is crucial for patients and their families to have open discussions with healthcare providers about their treatment options. By educating themselves about their conditions and modern medical treatments available, they can make informed decisions that prioritize their health and wellbeing.
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