A recent study published in JAMA Surgery highlights a troubling trend: cancer patients are experiencing longer waits between diagnosis and the start of treatment. The analysis, covering data from 2012 to 2023, examined six major cancers including breast, colon, lung, pancreatic, oesophageal, and gastric cancers.

Rising Waiting Times Across Cancer Types

The study found that median delays increased for all cancers studied. For instance:

  • Breast cancer patients waited a median of 45 days in 2023, up from 34 days in 2012.
  • Colon cancer treatment initiation rose from 20 to 31 days.
  • Lung cancer patients faced a wait increase from 41 to 53 days.
  • Pancreatic cancer delays grew from 23 to 32 days.
  • Oesophageal cancer treatment started later by 10 days, moving from 38 to 48 days.
  • Gastric cancer showed the largest rise, with median wait times extending from 35 to 49 days.

Disparities and Systemic Challenges

The research also revealed disparities in treatment delays. Black patients, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and Medicaid recipients were disproportionately affected. Additionally, patients at large academic medical centres often faced longer waits than those treated at smaller community facilities.

These delays are attributed in part to the complexities of navigating healthcare systems, including referrals between hospitals and the transfer of medical records and biopsy results. Such logistical hurdles can prolong the time before treatment begins.

Implications and Calls for Action

Longer wait times pose risks, as some cancers may progress during delays, potentially impacting patient outcomes. The study underscores the need for healthcare systems to streamline processes, enhance communication between facilities, and prioritize timely access to care—especially for vulnerable populations.

Researchers urge the implementation of system-level strategies to monitor and reduce delays, such as improving referral pathways and expediting transfer of diagnostic information. Addressing these issues is critical to ensuring equitable and effective cancer treatment.

Context in Kenya

Similar challenges have been documented in Kenya, where socioeconomic and health system factors contribute to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Studies at Kenyatta National Hospital and other facilities have identified barriers including high costs, distance to specialized centers, and limited services outside urban areas.

Reducing treatment delays is essential for improving cancer care quality and outcomes both locally and globally.