Câncer e Masculinidades: Sentidos Atribuídos ao Adoecimento e ao Tratamento Oncológico

Abstract

From the perspective of Qualitative Research and anchored on the assumptions Gender's Theories, this study aimed to understand the meanings that men attribute to the illness process of cancer and oncologic treatment. We interviewed 16 patients with different types of cancer, admitted to a public hospital, oncology reference, in the city of Belo Horizonte - MG. The results point to implications of the socialization process and the construction of masculine identity in the way that men experience the illness and are linked to the practices of care. The new condition and the limitations imposed by illness and routine care unfamiliar, appear incoherent with the position social attributed to men and contrary to the standards established by the model of hegemonic masculinity, contributing to feelings of fear, sadness and distress. The necessity of depart of labor activities and the refl ections of treatment in the exercise of sexuality were highlighted by participants, contributing to the sense of reduction and loss of masculinity. Observes the need of developing of public health efforts to consider the gender dimension, favoring the recognition of specifi c health needs and singularities of the male audience.