Sociodemographic Factors Associated with Delays in Breast Cancer

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of our study was to investigate the relation of some sociodemographic factors and delays presentation in breast cancer. Patients and method: This was an observational study in Breast Unit of Aristide Le Dantec Teaching Hospital in Dakar. Were included in the study all patients followed for breast cancer from January 2008 to December 2014. The following variables were selected and stratified: age, place of living, educational attainment, menopausal status, socioeconomic status and family history of breast cancer. For each variable, an association with the stage and presentation delay was assessed. Results: Two hundred and fifty nine (259) patients met the inclusion criteria. No correlation was found between the studied socio-demographic factors and delay. Negative history of family breast cancer was associated with presentation delay. The only factor associated with locally advanced breast cancer after adjusting confounding factors was low level of income. Conclusion: A significant percentage of women with breast cancer in Senegal are experiencing presentation delay. Coordinated efforts with public health department are needed to educate the focused groups and mitigate the barriers.