Delay in Presentation of Breast Symptoms
Author Information
Author(s): Nosarti C, Crayford T, Roberts J V, Elias E, McKenzie K, David A S
Primary Institution: King's College School of Medicine and Institute of Psychiatry
Hypothesis
What factors are associated with delays in presentation and assessment of women with breast symptoms?
Conclusion
Beliefs about breast symptoms significantly influence when women seek medical help.
Supporting Evidence
- 35% of women delayed presentation for 4 weeks or more.
- The most common reason for delay was thinking the symptom was not serious.
- Patients who thought they had cancer were seen more promptly.
Takeaway
This study found that many women wait too long to see a doctor about breast symptoms because they think their symptoms aren't serious.
Methodology
The study analyzed 692 consecutive symptomatic referrals to a breast clinic, focusing on patient delay and associated factors.
Limitations
The study may not account for all socio-economic and ethnic factors influencing delay.
Participant Demographics
Women aged 40–75 years with breast symptoms.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 3.6–8.0 for the most common reason for delay.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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