Screening for hepatocellular carcinoma by Egyptian physicians

Area of Science:

• Hepatology and Oncology
• Medical Practice and Education
• Public Health and Epidemiology

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant global health concern, with varying prevalence and risk factors across regions.
• Effective screening strategies are crucial for early detection and improved patient outcomes in high-risk populations.
• Understanding current physician practices and knowledge gaps is essential for optimizing HCC screening programs in Egypt.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the current practices and knowledge of Egyptian physicians regarding the screening of patients at risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
• To identify factors influencing physician adherence to HCC screening guidelines.
• To assess the awareness of risk factors, diagnostic tools, and recommended screening intervals for HCC.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 154 physicians from various Egyptian healthcare settings.
• Data collection via a 20-item questionnaire assessing physician demographics, specialty, practice setting, and knowledge of HCC risk factors, screening methods, and follow-up intervals.
• Statistical analysis to identify correlations between physician characteristics and their HCC screening practices.

Main Results:

• Physicians with higher degrees (MD) and those specializing in tropical medicine, internal medicine, or gastroenterology showed greater awareness of HCC risk factors like Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) genotype.
• A significant proportion of physicians recommended screening for HCV, Hepatitis B virus, and liver cirrhosis, with specialists more likely to advise screening.
• Abdominal ultrasonography was widely recognized as the primary investigation for HCC screening, with recommended screening intervals of 3 months by a majority of specialists.

Conclusions:

• Physicians with advanced degrees (MD), specialized training in internal medicine, gastroenterology, or tropical medicine, and those working in university hospitals possess superior knowledge regarding HCC.
• These findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions to enhance HCC screening practices among all Egyptian physicians.
• Optimizing physician education is key to improving the early detection and management of HCC in Egypt.