DETERMINANTS OF DELAY IN BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY AT LADY READING HOSPITAL, PESHAWAR
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69723/njms.04.03.0601Keywords:
Breast Neoplasms, Diagnostic delay, Treatment delay, Health Care Access, Cross-Sectional StudiesAbstract
BACKGROUND: Delayed diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer significantly impact patient outcomes and survival rates. In developing countries, healthcare system challenges and patient-related factors contribute to diagnostic delays, leading to advanced disease presentation and poor prognosis.
OBJECTIVE: To assess the extent of delays in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment among patients presenting to Lady Reading Hospital and identify associated factors contributing to these delays.
METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients from 1st January 2024 to 30th December 2024. Data were collected through structured interviews and medical record reviews. Delays were categorised into patient delay, provider delay, and treatment delay.
RESULTS: The median patient delay was 12 weeks (IQR: 6-20), provider delay was 8 weeks (IQR: 4-14), and treatment delay was 6 weeks (IQR: 3-10). About 68.5% of patients presented with Stage III/IV disease. Significant associations were found between longer delays and rural residence (p<0.001), lower education levels (p=0.002), and financial constraints (p<0.001).
CONCLUSION: Substantial delays in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment result in advanced disease presentation. Immediate implementation of better healthcare access, patient education, and an efficient system is essential for better breast cancer outcomes in resource-constrained settings.
KEYWORDS: Breast Neoplasms, Diagnostic Delay, Time-to-Treatment, Health Services Accessibility, Cross-Sectional Studies
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