Delayed diagnostic evaluation of symptomatic breast cancer in sub-Saharan Africa: A qualitative study of Tanzanian women.
Lulu Lunogelo SakafuGodfrey Sama PhilipoChristina V MalicheweLulu Said FundikiraFlora A LwakatareKatherine Van LoonBeatrice Paul MushiRebecca J DeBoerStella A BialousAmie Y LeePublished in: PloS one (2022)
Lack of basic knowledge and awareness of breast cancer, stigma, financial barriers, and local healthcare system barriers were common factors contributing to delayed diagnostic presentation of breast cancer. The influence of friends and family also played key roles as both facilitators and barriers. This information will inform the development of educational intervention strategies to address these barriers and improve earlier diagnosis of symptomatic breast cancer in Tanzania.