A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY OF REASONS FOR DELAY IN SEEKING HEALTH CARE IN BREAST CANCER PATIENTS

Dr. Harsha M. Mesharm, Dr. Anup A. Wakodkar

Abstract


Background: To improve the breast cancer care, better understanding of causes for treatment delay are important issues. Aim & objectives: To study delay in seeking health care in breast cancer patients. Methodology: Descriptive study in a tertiary care hospital during May 2013 to June 2014. Study participants were histo-pathologically confirmed 110 female patients of breast cancer. Results: Median duration of first health care consultation for breast complaints was 4 months (1-24 months). Median duration of definitive diagnosis was 7 days (2-270 days).  Total 62(56.36%) cases reported to the doctor after 3 months of delay. Most common reason for delay in seeking health care was no pain present in 53(85.48%). SES, stage of disease and tumor size were significantly associated with delay in seeking health care. Delay in the diagnosis was present in 16(14.55%). Conclusion: Majority of cases reported in advanced stage of disease.


Keywords


Cancer, Delay, SES, Advanced stage.

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References


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