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Barriers to Cancer Care in Northern Tanzania: Patient and Health-System Predictors for Delayed Presentation
Tara J Rick1,2, Magdeline Aagard3, Erica Erwin4
1Department of Physician Assistant Studies, Saint Catherine's University, St Paul, MN.
JCO Global Oncology
|October 19, 2021
Summary
Delayed cancer care in Tanzania is common, with 78% of patients experiencing delays. Factors include low education, long travel, and lack of cancer knowledge, impacting patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Public Health
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Cancer presents a growing health challenge in Africa, often leading to adverse outcomes due to delayed treatment.
- Timely access to cancer care is crucial for improving patient prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify patient and health-system factors contributing to delayed cancer care among adults in Northern Tanzania.
- To understand the specific barriers preventing timely presentation for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted with 244 adult cancer patients at an oncology clinic in Northern Tanzania between July 2018 and July 2019.
- Delayed presentation was defined as 12 weeks or longer from symptom onset to seeking care.
- Multivariate logistic regression and adjusted relative risk (aRR) analyses were employed to determine predictive factors.
Main Results:
- A significant majority (78%) of patients experienced delayed cancer care.
- Patient-related factors associated with delays included lower educational attainment, increased travel time, limited cancer knowledge, and fear of cancer/treatment.
- Lack of private transportation and having health insurance were linked to a higher risk of delayed presentation.
Conclusions:
- Enhancing cancer awareness and prevention initiatives is essential to mitigate delays in cancer care.
- Targeting both patients and community healthcare workers can improve timely access to oncology services in Northern Tanzania.
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