Published in PLOS One on 2026-07-02, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. Health Signal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Sadik Abdulwehab, Duguma Debela Genati, Frezer Kedir, Adera Debella Kebede
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0352869
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Delayed Health-seeking behavior among cancer patients is a major contributor to late diagnosis, poor prognosis, and high mortality, particularly in low-resource settings like Ethiopia. However, evidence on the magnitude and determinants of delayed care-seeking remains fragmented.
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of delayed Health-seeking behavior among cancer patients in Ethiopia and to identify associated factors influencing delays.
This study employed a systematic review and meta-analysis design to assess delayed Health-seeking behavior and its influencing factors among cancer patients in Ethiopia. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, AJOL, Google Scholar, and Ethiopian University repositories until April 27, 2025. The data were extracted from March 10–20 and analyzed from March 21–30, with report generation till April 27, 2025, using R software. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model, with forest plots illustrating pooled prevalence and associated factors. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic, and study quality was evaluated using a validated tool.
Seven studies conducted across multiple regions of Ethiopia were included in the final analysis with a total of 2,641 participants. The pooled prevalence of delayed Health-seeking behavior among cancer patients was 54% (95% CI: 39%–68%). Meta-analysis of associated factors showed that rural residence was significantly associated with delayed Health-seeking behavior, with patients residing in rural areas having more than threefold higher odds of delay (AOR = 3; 95% CI: 1.81–4.19), poor knowledge about cancer was strongly associated with delay, with nearly seven times higher odds among patients with poor knowledge compared to those with adequate knowledge (AOR = 6.63; 95% CI: 2.21–11.05), lack of cancer awareness was also a significant predictor of delayed Health-seeking behavior (AOR = 2.63; 95% CI: 1.75–3.51), and patients without pain were over three times more likely to delay Healthcare(AOR = 3.38; 95% CI: 2.44–4.67) were factors associated with delayed Health-seeking behavior.
Our review showed that half of the cancer patients in Ethiopia experienced delayed health-seeking behavior. Delayed care-seeking was associated with rural residence, poor knowledge, limited awareness of cancer, and absence of pain symptoms. Targeted interventions, including public awareness campaigns, expansion of healthcare services in rural areas, and financial support initiatives, are urgently needed to reduce delays and improve early cancer diagnosis and outcomes.
CRD420251037845
Introduction
Health-seeking behavior refers to the sequence of actions individuals undertake to recognize symptoms, interpret their severity, and seek appropriate medical care and timely treatment [1]. Delays in seeking care are strongly associated with advanced-stage disease, reduced survival, and increased mortality among cancer patients [2].
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
This briefing makes the source accessible within the wider research & evidence desk. It does not assess an individual patient or certify a product. When considering relevance to another health system, examine the original authors’ account of context and limitations, then seek local implementation evidence. The related reporting below provides other studies to read alongside this one; it is a topic connection, rather than a claim that their results are directly comparable.
© 2026 Sadik Abdulwehab, Duguma Debela Genati, Frezer Kedir, Adera Debella Kebede. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by Health Signal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of Health Signal’s staff.
Explore connected evidence
- Evidence brief: Utilization of palliative care services and associated factors among cancer patients in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
- Evidence brief: Prevalence and factors associated with treatment delay among colorectal cancer patients at Mulago National Referral Hospital and the Uganda Cancer Institute: A cross-sectional study
- Evidence brief: The effect of antiretroviral therapy adherence on viral load suppression rate among people living with HIV in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
