Medische omgang met erfelijke aspecten van kanker in Nederland, 1900-1980

Translated title of the contribution: Medical perception of the hereditary aspects of cancer in the Netherlands, 1900-1980

S. A.M. Snelders*, T. Pieters, F. J. Meijman

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Since at least the 18th century doctors have drawn connections between cancer and heredity in the hope of making progress in diagnosis, treatment and opportunities for prevention. From 1910 to 1980, the relationship between cancer and heredity was hardly discussed publicly in the Netherlands. This facilitated the development of models of public prevention and individual predisposition for certain cancers, such as retinoblastoma, after the Second World War. Historical experience shows that the perception of the relationship between cancer and heredity is influenced by more than just rational factors. The fear of creating 'cancerphobia' has hindered this perception in the past; fatalism ('it makes no difference anyway') and stigmatisation (familial and societal pressure) may negatively influence participation in early detection and prevention. This remains a problematic issue today.

Translated title of the contributionMedical perception of the hereditary aspects of cancer in the Netherlands, 1900-1980
Original languageDutch
Pages (from-to)712-715
Number of pages4
JournalNederlands Tijdschrift voor Geneeskunde
Volume151
Issue number12
Publication statusPublished - 24 Mar 2007

Keywords

  • cancer diagnosis
  • cancer prevention
  • cancer susceptibility
  • heredity
  • human
  • Netherlands
  • perception
  • retinoblastoma
  • review

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