INTRODUCTION: Breast cancer is the leading type of cancer affecting women in Egypt; 32% of all female cancer patients, and the second cause of mortality among Egyptian females. Furthermore, the prevalence of developing metastatic breast cancer among breast cancer patients, in Egypt, was shown to be higher than the global norms, indicating either late diagnosis, or inadequate care. With more than one third of families headed by women in Egypt; a middle-income country, aggravates the effect of the high cancer-specific mortality among females. This research paper assesses causes of the unfavorable prognosis of breast cancer among Egyptian patients, and the socioeconomic implications of such outcomes. It will also provide policy recommendations on how to correct the current situation. METHODS: Demographic and epidemiologic data from Egypt Demographic Health Survey, National Cancer Registry and National Health Accounts is used to evaluate the socioeconomic implications of breast cancer in Egypt. Access to care is assessed through semi-structured key informant interviews with decision makers and leaders of patient organizations, and complemented with data on the capacity of the healthcare providers and their geographical distribution.   RESULTS: Access to care among Egyptian breast cancer patients is inadequate. Lack of awareness, late diagnosis and inappropriate treatment are among the identified reasons. The socioeconomic consequences of this problem reach far beyond the patient, to affect her family, particularly children, and her closer community. CONCLUSIONS: The unfavorable prognosis of breast cancer in Egypt jeopardizes the socioeconomic status of patients, their families, and closer communities. Holistic policy measures need to be taken to remedy this situation.