Perceptions of death, dying and the body in Vietnamese culture: A qualitative exploration from a study examining the potentials of minimally invasive tissue sampling in Vietnam

Background: Perceptions of death and dying has been attracting more attention in recent years with more advocacy on improving the end-of-life experiences and providing more support for families during these times. While these topics are important, Western views about death and dying have been more dominant, leaving a knowledge gap in how death and dying are perceived in Asian cultures. We used qualitative methods to explore how death and dying was perceived in Vietnamese culture, and examine the implications for related practices, including minimally invasive tissue sampling. Methods: We conducted 59 in-depth interviews and five focus group discussions with key informants, healthcare professionals, community stakeholders and relatives of recently deceased people. We used a form of thematic analysis and explored the perceptions of death and dying, with particular focus on the concepts of a good death and the meaning of the body in Vietnamese culture. Results: Perceptions and attitudes surrounding death and dying varied, from an acceptance attitude to a fearful and anxious view when talking about death. A good death was usually perceived as dying at home and surrounded by family, with no worries or regrets for both the deceased and the family, and keeping an intact body. The body has a sacred meaning to the family that is handled with great care and respect. Conclusion: Death and dying in Vietnamese culture is a communal affair with a considerable role of the family on the dying experience of the person. Any related practices, such as end-of-life care or minimally invasive tissue sampling, should consider the cultural aspects to improve its acceptability.