How delays in seeking medical care for cervical cancer patients are affected by their health-seeking behaviour: a qualitative study

This study identifies key barriers to health-seeking behaviours among cervical cancer patients, including limited awareness of early symptoms and underestimated perceptions of risk and severity. It suggests that future interventions should adopt a multifaceted approach targeting healthcare providers, patients, and their social support systems. This strategy should emphasize disease-related knowledge and timely health-seeking behaviours. Clinically, greater emphasis on culturally sensitive communication and patient education is needed to reduce stigma and fear associated with gynecological care. At the policy level, expanding access to affordable screening services and strengthening rural healthcare infrastructure could help reduce disparities and promote earlier diagnosis and treatment.