Evaluation of the Health Care Path for Breast Cancer Diagnosis according to the Self-declared Race

Abstract

Introduction: Early diagnosis impacts reducing mortality from breast cancer. Race is related to the timing of diagnosis, as black women are diagnosed at more advanced stages and have higher mortality rates when compared to white women. The racial factor in Brazil is permeated by economic, cultural, and social issues, which influence the quality of health accessed by the population. Objectives: To evaluate the flows of breast cancer diagnosis according to race in women from Campinas and the metropolitan regions. Methods: Cross-sectional observational study, analyzing data obtained from medical records and interviews with women diagnosed with breast cancer in Campinas and region admitted for diagnosis and/or treatment at the Unicamp Women's Hospital (CAISM) in Campinas in the year 2023. The sample will be for convenience, and it is estimated that 100 interviews will be carried out over a period of 6 months. The main outcome will be the stage at diagnosis. Socio-demographic variables, process times, and clinical variables will be analyzed. Data will be collected and stored in the RedCap® software. This project is part of doctoral research registered at Plataforma Brasil under the number 60402322.7.1001.5404. Work Plan: The estimated duration of the Scientific Initiation project is 12 months. The student will carry out the identification of eligible patients, the interviews, and will participate in the data analysis, and writing an article to be submitted to an indexed journal.