Factors Contributing to Late Breast Cancer Diagnosis: A Qualitative Study on the Patient's Perspective in Tanzania.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Breast cancer remains a significant public health issue worldwide, with late diagnosis leading to poorer outcomes. In Tanzania, many women are diagnosed with advanced stages of breast cancer. The aim of this study was to identify reasons for late presentations from the patient's perspective.

Methods

Employing a qualitative study design, in-depth interviews were conducted with breast cancer patients. Purposeful sampling was used to recruit patients from inpatient and outpatient settings in the Cancer Care Center of the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre. Eligible patients who were at least 18 years old, and with diagnosed breast cancer were invited for the interview immediately after their medical follow-up visit. Interview transcripts were analysed thematically.

SUBMITTER: Msoka EF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12817402 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature