Factors Influencing Patient and System Delays in Women with Breast Cancer in Morocco: A Systematic Review

In Morocco, Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. In most cases, the disease is confirmed at an advanced stage. Delays in the presentation, diagnosis, and access to treatment for breast cancer significantly increase mortality and morbidity. This review aimed to identify the factors influencing patient and system delays in Moroccan women with breast cancer.

A systematic review was conducted exploring three databases (PubMed, Science Direct, and Web of Science) using predefined Keywords related to breast cancer presentation and diagnosis. Additionally, the reference lists of pertinent papers were manually checked. The quality of papers selected was assessed using specific checklists, according to the study design. We conducted a qualitative synthesis using thematic analysis to compile the findings.

The review includes 7 studies that identified 45 barriers that could affect the patient and systems delay among women with breast cancer. The main factors cited were largely associated with healthcare accessibility, notably high costs, and geographical challenges, along with a lack of awareness and knowledge regarding breast cancer.

Policymakers in Morocco should prioritize improving accessibility to the healthcare system in all its aspects-financial, geographical, and patient pathways and take decisive actions to enhance awareness and knowledge about breast cancer and promote breast cancer screening.