Understanding the causes of breast cancer treatment delays at a teaching hospital in Ghana. (March 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sanuade, Olutobi A; Ayettey, Hannah; Hewlett, Sandra; Dedey, Florence; Wu, Lily; Akingbola, Titilola; Ogedegbe, Gbenga; de-Graft Aikins, Ama
• Is Part Of: Journal of health psychology. Volume 26:Number 3(2021)
• Page Start: 357
• Page End: 366
• Publication Date: 2021-03
• Subjects: breast cancer -- Ghana -- healthcare provider attitudes -- healthcare systems -- illness perception -- treatment delays; Clinical health psychology -- Periodicals; 613.019
• DOI: 10.1177/1359105318814152
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-1053

Abstract

Poor outcomes for breast cancer in Ghana have been attributed to late presentation of symptoms at biomedical facilities. This study explored factors accounting for delays in initiation of breast cancer treatment at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra. Focus group discussions were conducted with 20 women with breast cancer. A theory-driven thematic analysis identified three multilevel factors influencing treatment seeking delays: (1) patient (e.g. misinterpretation of symptoms, fear), (2) healthcare provider (e.g. negative attitudes) and (3) health systems (e.g. shortage of medicines). Addressing treatment delays will require multilevel interventions, including culturally congruent education, psychosocial counselling/support and strengthening health systems.