- This document presents the results of a study that aimed to identify perceptions about cancer in people from the Tsotsil, Tseltal population in Chiapas, Mexico, and the Kichwa population in Chimborazo, Ecuador. The information was obtained through a survey applied to a random sample with finiteness in its size marked by the time of application of the questionnaire, 30 days. Among the main results it is found that a) perceptions about cancer are associated with death in 45% of cases; b) 5% have participated at least once in the care of relatives or close people who suffered from cancer; c) the people surveyed have had at least one family member (10%), friend or acquaintance with cancer (18%). Cancer is a complex phenomenon that motivates various studies from different approaches and disciplines. This research provides knowledge about the perceptions of the population in contexts of cultural diversity, which is important to support the search for ways to promote early diagnosis and treatment. Within the perceptions about cancer, the association with death, fear and loss in the study population are present.

Keywords : Perceptions, cancer, Tsotsil, Tseltal and Kichwa population