Cancer diagnosis delays in pregnant women
A study reveals how misinterpretation of cancer symptoms as pregnancy-related symptoms can lead to delays in diagnosing and treating cancer during pregnancy.
In a novel study conducted at the University of Surrey (UK), researchers analyzed the experiences of women being diagnosed with cancer during pregnancy or shortly after. The study found that cancer symptoms presenting in pregnant women were often interpreted through the lens of pregnancy, occasionally leading to delays in referrals, diagnosis and treatment.
The study recruited twenty women through a charity, Mummy’s Star, that supports women and families facing cancer during or within a year of pregnancy. Of the twenty participants, seventeen were diagnosed with cancer during pregnancy and three were diagnosed postpartum. Each participant was interviewed to explore their experience of receiving a cancer diagnosis.
The researchers found differences in referrals and diagnoses with different symptoms related to cancer, with more specific cancer symptoms found to have quicker referrals. For instance, women who experienced changes in their breasts, such as lumps, were more likely to suspect cancer and be referred quickly for further tests. Those with less specific cancer symptoms, such as abdominal pain, were often attributed to pregnancy by both pregnant women and healthcare professionals, leading to delays in referral and diagnosis.
Breastfeeding choices for cancer patients: insights from the POSITIVE trial
In this interview, Fedro Peccatori discusses the POSITIVE trial, which is assessing the impact on women with breast cancer taking a break from endocrine treatment to breastfeed.
“Our research highlights the critical need for healthcare professionals to thoroughly assess pregnant women presenting with concerning symptoms and to refer them for appropriate tests when these symptoms persist,” commented lead author Afrodita Marcu (University of Surrey, UK).
The authors concluded that healthcare professionals need to better support pregnant women to ensure timely referrals and diagnosis, as well as fully investigate symptoms before dismissing them solely as pregnancy-related symptoms. Further to this, the study emphasizes encouraging patients to advocate for themselves and to seek second opinions for concerning symptoms.
“By carefully considering all possibilities and avoiding the immediate assumption that symptoms are solely pregnancy-related, we can ensure women receive timely diagnoses and access appropriate treatment,” concluded Marcu.