Supporting policy to improve delayed diagnosis of cancer in Nigeria

Abstract The majority of people with cancer present in late stage (Stage III or IV) in Sub Saharan Africa, resulting in poor outcomes. In Nigeria, over three-quarters of common curable cancers present late, compared to 35% in high-income countries. Early detection, and referral to surgical and treatment centres for first line treatment could potentially improve outcomes. Aim: To investigate delays to cancer care in Nigeria Work packages: 1. Elicit patients’ accounts from first noticing a bodily change to the point of resolution where patients receive treatment, or are informed the cancer is not treatable (n=480) 2. Engage with policy makers to share evidence and inform the development of interventions to improve detection and treatment of cancer Our research will focus on four types of cancer: · breast · colorectum · head and neck · cervix We will explore the patient journey according to the three stages to diagnosis outlined in the WHO guide to early cancer diagnosis, focusing on the duration and causes of delay from first symptom to treatment.