P-001 - Factors influencing late presentation for health care among men with cancer esophagus attending Hospice Africa Uganda (HAU)

Abstract

Introduction: Late presentation for health care among patients with Cancer Esophagus is a major problem in Uganda. Cancer of Esophagus is one of the curable cancers if caught in its early stages. World Health Organization (2010) reports that esophageal cancer is the second most common cancer among men and was responsible for over 25000 deaths in 2010, approximately 80% occurred in developing countries. It was projected that it will increase by 25% over the next 10 years if nothing is done like putting prevention measures of adequate screening and treatment into place. Methods: A recording tape was used to store all the discussions for flexibility. The recorded material was first transcribed from local language then translated into English. Different themes were identified and then coding was done to come up with clear relations to the topic. Results: The results were also presented to Hospice Africa Uganda and Mbarara regional referral hospital management for proper planning. The 60% of the patient had no transport neither finicial support to access or report at the health facilities. The 40% of these patient had financial support but did not have time to visit the health workers. Conclusion: In conclusion, the themes realized which contributed to the late presentation for health care, could be grouped under three main factors: Socio-economic factors, Health system factors and Patient and community factors. These factors are interdependent. These need to be addressed by the responsible personnel in order to realize a change for the better in the health seeking mannerisms of patients.