This study investigates the association between socio-demographic factors, comorbidity and diagnostic delay
among gynaecological cancer patients. A questionnaire was sent to 1052 women diagnosed with cervical,
endometrial or ovarian cancer between October 2006 and December 2007 in Denmark. Long patient delays
were associated with diagnosis with a greater risk of experiencing long delays among women diagnosed with
cervical and endometrial cancer as opposed to ovarian cancer. The risk of experiencing long GP referral delays
was associated with residential area, with a greater risk of long delays in rural vs. urban areas. Long gynaecologist
appointment delays were associated with younger age, while long secondary care delays were
associated with living in a capital area and having comorbidity. Long total delays were associated with
diagnosis with greater risk of experiencing long delays among women diagnosed with cervical and endometrial
cancer as opposed to ovarian cancer, and with working as opposed to being retired. In conclusion, this study
found that socio-demographic factors and comorbidity play a role in the probability of experiencing long delays.
If delays in diagnosis are to be reduced, there must be increased recognition of the significance of symptoms
among patients and interventions aimed at ensuring timely care by specialists.