Determinants of patient delay and its association with quality of life among young women with breast cancer in China: A cross-sectional study

Waiting time for initial outpatient consultation > 7-day was the strongest determinant of patient delay among young women with breast cancer. Other significant factors included rural residence and initial consultation in non-specialist departments, while higher health literacy, friend support, and detection via physical examination were protective. Patient delay was significantly associated with poorer QoL, particularly in the domains of physical well-being, functional well-being, and additional concerns. These findings underscore the need for interventions targeting health care access to reduce patient delay and improve patient health outcomes.