Gynaecological oncology services: A qualitative exploration of womens' perspectives at a teaching hospital in North East India.

Background: Gynaecological malignancies pose a significant health concern in Northeastern region of India with poor survival rates often linked to limited awareness and/or delayed diagnosis. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of indigenous women in state of Assam regarding their gynecological cancer care seeking practices. Methods: This descriptive, qualitative study was conducted among 15 women attending the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Out Patient Department of a teaching hospital. Participants were purposively identified to ensure diverse perspectives. Semi-structured interviews highlighted their experiences with gynecological care. Interviews were continued until data saturation was achieved. These were transcribed verbatim, translated, coded, and analyzed thematically. Results: Study participants were aged between 25 and 60 years. Identified themes were the lack of awareness, family support and open communication with family and healthcare providers. Most were not aware of gynecological malignancies and available screening facilities. Lack of privacy and embarrassment of gynecological examination were perceived barriers to care seeking. Low prioritization of one's health, lack of autonomy and financial dependence on the spouse were personal level barriers. Fear of being diagnosed with cancer compounded by lack of information from hard-pressed healthcare providers also hindered early help seeking. Participants also preferred a female gynecologist for management of gynaecological malignancies. Conclusion: Lack of awareness and perceived barriers to early care seeking for gynaecological malignancies should be addressed to prevent cancer, ensure early detection and prompt treatment among indigenous women. These findings could be applied to improve the patient-centeredness of care facilitating timely and high-quality treatment for these malignancies.