Waiting in the Shadows: Diagnostic Delays and Illness Perceptions in Colorectal Cancer Patients

This study aimed to determine the time between the onset of initial symptoms and the decision to seek medical help, identify patient-related factors contributing to delays, and assess the relationship between diagnostic delays and illness perception among patients with colorectal cancer.

A cross‑sectional study at a medical oncology outpatient clinic included 114 patients with colorectal cancer. Data collection instruments included a structured questionnaire and the Brief Illness Perception Scale.

The mean time from symptom onset to seeking medical help was 7.3 ± 11.0 months (range: 1-62.5). A delay of more than one month was observed in 60.6% of patients, with 31.6% experiencing a significantly prolonged delay. Most participants (76.3%) reported being unaware of the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer, and only 16.7% had undergone a screening test. The most common reported complaints included changes in bowel habits (22.0%), rectal bleeding (15.3%), fatigue (13.1%), and abdominal pain (11.2%). Diagnostic delay was significantly associated with lower educational levels and changes in bowel habits (P < .05). The mean Brief Illness Perception Scale score was 21.7 ± 11.4, indicating moderate perceived threat. No statistically significant association was found between patients' illness perceptions and the duration of delay in seeking medical care (P > 05). Patients most often attributed their illness to stress (56.7%), diet (43.1%), and sadness (23.5%).

Despite experiencing symptoms indicative of colorectal cancer, many individuals delayed seeking medical help, primarily due to a lack of awareness of early signs.

Findings underscore the need for public education and early screening efforts to promote timely diagnosis and improve outcomes in colorectal cancer.