5-year survival rate and determinants of decreased survival among patients with breast cancer in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Survival varies across regions, with most deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries due to limited early detection and treatment access. This study aimed to estimate the 5-year survival rate and identify determinants of decreased survival among patients with breast cancer in Africa.

A systematic review of only retrospective cohort studies was conducted using PubMed, Hinari, EMBASE, Google Scholar, African Journals Online, African Index Medicus and Web of Science. The literature search was conducted for a 1-month duration (1-30 November 2024). We included all available articles without restriction on publication date to ensure a comprehensive review. Methodological quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa 2016 Critical Appraisal Checklist. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and Egger's test, and heterogeneity was assessed with the I2 test. Data were analysed with Stata V.17.