Prolonged delays in presentation and diagnosis of breast cancer in African women

Africa has low breast cancer incidence rates but breast cancer mortality rates that are as high as those in high-incidence countries. Delays in presentation and diagnosis are major determinants of breast cancer survival, but these have not been comprehensively investigated in Africa. Scientists from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recently published a review of 21 studies reporting on delays in presentation and diagnosis of breast cancer in Africa, and the reasons for these delays. This systematic review revealed marked delays in presentation and diagnosis. Identification of their drivers is crucial to the development of appropriate control strategies in Africa.

Espina C, McKenzie F, dos-Santos-Silva I
Delayed presentation and diagnosis of breast cancer in African women: a systematic review
Ann Epidemiol, 27(10):659–71.e7; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.annepidem.2017.09.007

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