Streamlining Diagnosis: Reducing Time for Brain Tumor Detection in Children of an Upper-Middle-Income Country

Delays in diagnosing pediatric brain tumors are often associated with limited awareness of the signs and symptoms by parents and healthcare professionals, as well as the absence of routine childcare follow-ups and delays in healthcare system referrals.

To explore opportunities for reducing diagnostic delays, the study assessed the knowledge of pediatric brain tumor signs and symptoms, routine follow-up care for children, use of the Child Health Book (CHB), and referral intervals of a suspected case to a specialized center.

This cross-sectional study collected data through interviews and virtual questionnaires.

Between August and November 2023, 200 parents (pediatric and oncology departments) and 147 healthcare professionals (primary and tertiary care) participated. Except for headaches and seizures, the rates of parental recognition of warning signs were below 70%. Physicians in tertiary care demonstrated greater recognition of these warning signs than those in primary care (p = 0.011). Recognition rates among nurses were below 75%. Primary and tertiary care professionals reported referral intervals >1 month in 10%-15% cases. Children routine follow-up care was reported in both levels. Over 75% of all participants reported that the CHB could be a useful tool for educating about childhood cancer.

Our study provides essential insights to improve the early diagnosis of pediatric brain tumors. The findings emphasize the need to strengthen pediatric care follow-ups and use of CHB by parents and healthcare professionals to raise awareness of warning signs and symptoms, along with a flowchart for timely and accurate referrals to specialized centers.