Abstract
Socioeconomic status (SES) often affects the rate in which people receive medical care. When it comes to diagnoses and treatment in regards to illness, specifically cancer, timing is everything. This article takes an in depth look at individuals who have been diagnosed with esophageal cancer in Qilu, China. The socioeconomic status of low, middle, and higher class individuals often has a profound impact on diagnosis, treatment, and care when it comes to illness. Lower socioeconomic status often leads to the later the stage in which cancer is diagnosed. The later the diagnosis, the less options an individual has in regards to treatment, especially if the patient has a lower SES status. The higher the socioeconomic status an
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The focus of occupational therapy is never solely on one specific diagnosis, but on individuals as a whole. The role of occupational therapy in relation to cancer patients can vary greatly. Occupational therapy practitioners can help educate the public on health and wellness as it relates to cancer. Education on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle of not smoking, not drinking, and staying physically active, may help decrease the risk of cancer. Once an individual has been diagnosed, an occupational therapy practitioner can provide coping skills for the individuals and as well as their families. Occupational therapy practitioners can also educate the families on how to assist the patients with daily needs that can help conserve energy while undergoing treatment. For those less fortunate, who cannot afford treatment, occupational therapy practitioners can inform families of local or online cancer support groups (Zhang Liu, G. 2001).
Implications for Occupational Therapy Practice
Occupational therapy in China does exist, however, not to the extent that it does in America. As the population continues to increase and age, the need for occupational services continues to grow. Cancer, like many other diagnoses, is increasing as well, calling for the need of education, therapy, and support. It is more difficult for people who have a lower socioeconomic status
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(2016). A survey of occupational therapy practice in Beijing, china. US National Library of Medicine National Institute of Health. 23(2), 186-95. doi: 10.1002/oti.1423
Wang, N., Cao, F., Liu, F., Jia, Y., Wang, J., Bao, C., Wang, X., Song, Q., Tan, B., & Cheng, Y. (2015). The effect of socioeconomic status on health-care delay and treatment of esophageal cancer. Journal of Translational Medicine. 13. 241. doi: 10.1186/s12967-015-0579-9
Zhang Liu, G. 2001. Chinese culture and disability: information for u.s. service providers. Center for International Rehabilitation Research Information & Exchange. Retrieved from: www. Cirre.buffalo.edu/culture