Assessment of the interval between diagnosis and definitive treatment of lung cancer at a public institution in São Paulo

This study aimed to investigate the interval between the diagnosis and definitive surgical treatment of lung cancer patients at a public institution in São Paulo. A retrospective observational study was conducted, using medical records to collect data on the periods between the first abnormal chest computed tomography (CT) scan, the initial consultation with the specialist, and the subsequent tumor resection. The analysis of 20 patients revealed a substantial average waiting period of 425.6 days between diagnosis and definitive treatment. During this interval, an average of 282 days elapsed between diagnosis and the initial specialist consultation, while the period between the first consultation and treatment averaged 143 days. By comparing the initial and final staging, 70% of the patients progressed to a higher stage over this period. The identified interval is concerning and exposes patients to elevated risks during this waiting period. This prolonged duration poses potential threats to patient health, resulting in decreased quality of life, increased risk of disease progression, reduced chances of cure, and diminished overall survival prospects. Addressing and minimizing this extended interval is crucial for improving patient outcomes and enhancing the effectiveness of lung cancer treatment.