Training and oncologists' changing attitudes toward their own cancer therapy

Oncologists' attitudes toward therapy for his or her own hypothetical cancer have not been studied, and they may influence therapeutic decisions for patients. This study compared attitudes of oncologists at different levels of training toward therapy for their own hypothetical cancer. Those with limited oncology experience had high expectations for treatment, as expressed in their acceptance of all therapeutic modalities for their own disease. Early intensive inpatient oncology experience (first year of training) led to disenchantment, and rejection of various therapies. Further outpatient experience led to an increased acceptance of therapy again, and those finishing second and third year of oncology training, and senior medical staff in oncology, had high expectations for treatment. These results suggest an evolution of attitudes toward therapy with training and experience.