Bridging the deficit: Assessing knowledge gaps in thyroid cancer management amongst physicians in the Democratic...

Thyroid cancer incidence is rising globally, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Despite its increasing incidence, limited data exist on physicians' knowledge of thyroid cancer management in the DRC.

To evaluate the knowledge levels of Congolese physicians regarding the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid nodules and cancers, and to identify existing gaps and areas for improvement.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from June to August 2024, involving 369 physicians practicing in healthcare facilities across Kinshasa, DRC. Participants were selected using a multi-stage sampling method. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire covering thyroid cancer epidemiology, diagnostic methods, treatment approaches, and prognosis. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive and inferential statistics, with a P value ≤ 0.05 being considered as statistically significant.

Overall response rate was 96.1%. Of all participants, 68% were female and 32% were male physicians. General practitioners constituted 84.8% of respondents, with an average age of 34 years. While 53.7% demonstrated adequate knowledge of hypothyroidism management post-thyroidectomy and 61.2% identified the approach for hypoparathyroidism, only 5.1% recognized the need for radiotherapy in metastatic thyroid cancer cases. Awareness of anaplastic thyroid cancer treatment was limited (6.5%), and 90.2% of physicians were unfamiliar with the surgical complications. Moderate understanding was noted in diagnostic protocols, with 44.2% correctly identifying repeat fine-needle aspiration timing in Bethesda I cases. Knowledge of molecular genetics, recurrence risks, and metastasis patterns was remarkably low.

This study highlights significant knowledge gaps among Congolese physicians regarding thyroid cancer management, especially about advanced treatment modalities and molecular genetics. Targeted educational programs and improved access to diagnostic tools are critical to bridging these deficits. Addressing these gaps can enhance the quality of thyroid cancer care and align clinical practices in the DRC with global standards.