Factors associated with delayed diagnosis of Crohn's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Delayed diagnosis is a major barrier to the effective management of Crohn's disease (CD). Several studies have investigated factors responsible for delays in diagnosis, but no meta -analyses have systematically assessed the impact of these factors. Aim: To assess the impact of various factors on the delayed diagnosis of CD. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were searched to identify observational studies published before April 2022 that assessed factors associated with delays in CD diagnosis. Further, we excluded review articles, case reports, or commentaries without original data. We pooled effect siee distinct samples. The assessment of study quality was performed utilizing the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, while the presence of between-study heterogeneity was investigated. For a visual appraisal of potential publication bias, a funnel plot was employed. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42022322251. Results: A total of 18 studies were included in the paper, covering 13 countries. The study sample consisted of 9669 cases. Ileal CD (OR = 1.46, 95 % CI = 1.21-1.76), smoking at the time of diagnosis (OR = 1.19, 95 % CI = 1.02-1.38), and use of NSAIDs (OR = 1.34, 95 % CI = 1.04-1.72) were significantly associated with a delay in CD diagnosis. However, no significant associations were observed between diagnostic delay and sex, age, endoscopic ileocolonoscopy, or diarrhea. Funnel plot analysis, indicating potential risks of publication bias, suggested the existence of unpublished or unreported study findings. Conclusion: The findings suggest that ileal CD, use of NSAIDs, and smoking are risk factors for the delayed diagnosis of CD. Enhancing education of patients and primary care providers about these factors is warranted.