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Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery

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01-11-2010 | Original Article

Why so late?!—delay in treatment of colorectal cancer is socially determined

Authors: Mike Ralf Langenbach, Stefan Sauerland, Karl-Wilhelm Kröbel, Hubert Zirngibl

Published in: Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery | Issue 8/2010

Abstract

Purpose

The interval between symptom onset and therapy in patients with colorectal cancer was studied.

Methods

One hundred twenty three patients with colorectal cancer were included. Demography data, symptoms, consultations, and tumour stage were obtained by standardized questionnaires. Risk factors for delayed treatment were analysed.

Results

Eighty six patients suffered from colonic cancer. The total time between the first symptoms and therapy ranged from 13 to 442 days (mean, 148). Delay of surgical therapy was responsible for significantly higher tumour grades. Delayed start of therapy was found to be correlated to the type of cancer, socioeconomic status, marital status, and quality of first consultation (univariate analysis). On multivariate analyses, type of cancer, marital and socioeconomic status remained significantly associated with delayed treatment (all p values ≤ 0.001, r² = 0.50).

Conclusions

The delay in treatment of colorectal cancer depends on socioeconomic status and family background. Achieving equity in colorectal cancer detection may require consideration of high-risk subgroups.

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Title: Why so late?!—delay in treatment of colorectal cancer is socially determined
Authors: Mike Ralf Langenbach
Stefan Sauerland
Karl-Wilhelm Kröbel
Hubert Zirngibl
Publication date: 01-11-2010
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery / Issue 8/2010
Print ISSN: 1435-2443
Electronic ISSN: 1435-2451
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00423-010-0664-8

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Why so late?!—delay in treatment of colorectal cancer is socially determined

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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