Determinants of Treatment Delays Among Underserved Hispanics With Lung and Head and Neck Cancers

Evidence is lacking to explain the reasons why treatment is delayed among disadvantaged Hispanic patients diagnosed with lung and head and neck cancers. Data indicate that treatment delays beyond 46 days increase the risk of death for individuals with these cancers.

A mixed-methods design was used to explore determinants of treatment delays by analyzing data from the medical records of 40 Hispanic patients and data from interviews with 29 Hispanic patients, caregivers, health care professionals, and patient navigators from a safety-net hospital.

Of the 40 Hispanic patients, 35% initiated treatment 46 days or more after being diagnosed, but women experienced longer delays than men (average of 48 days). Women with few comorbid diseases (≤ 4) were more likely to experience treatment delays. Institutional-related determinants at publicly funded hospitals appear to delay treatment for patients at the safety-net hospital, and patient-related determinants common to underserved patients (eg, no health insurance coverage) are likely to further contribute to these delays.

Delayed treatment is associated with poor outcomes and low rates of survival in patients with lung and head and neck cancers. Therefore, action should be taken to improve the time between diagnosis and the initiation of treatment for disadvantaged Hispanic patients.