Analysis of Factors Associated with Delayed Presentation of Prostate Cancer at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto State

Prostate cancer is the most common male malignancy in Nigeria, and delayed presentation at advanced stages significantly limits curative treatment options and survival. In North West states such as Sokoto, the determinants of late-stage diagnosis are not well characterised. This study analyses the sociodemographic, healthcare access, and knowledge-related factors associated with delayed presentation of prostate cancer at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto State. A mixed-methods case-control design is applied, comparing 120 patients presenting with locally advanced or metastatic prostate cancer against 120 patients presenting with localised disease. A structured questionnaire captures health literacy, awareness of prostate cancer symptoms, distance from health facility, prior healthcare consultations for urological symptoms, and PSA testing history. Binary logistic regression in SPSS identifies independent predictors of delayed presentation. Qualitative data from 20 in-depth patient interviews explore illness perception and care-seeking narratives. Available urological oncology literature from North West Nigeria identifies low health literacy, attribution of urological symptoms to ageing, and distrust of formal medical care as dominant determinants of late-stage prostate cancer presentation. The Leventhal Illness Representation Model provides the conceptual framework. Findings will support early detection advocacy targeting primary healthcare providers and community health workers in North West Nigeria. Keywords: prostate cancer, delayed presentation, risk factors, Sokoto State, North West Nigeria.