Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward chemotherapy resistance among oncologists: a multinational cross-sectional
Bassam Abdul Rasool Hassan1, Ali Haider Mohammed2, Khalis Mohamed3,4,5
1Faculty of Pharmacy, Al Rafidain University, Baghdad, Iraq.
Introduction:
This study assessed oncologists' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding chemotherapy resistance across multiple countries.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2023 to February 2024 using a structured questionnaire adapted from previous literature and translated into French, Russian, and Chinese. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Independent t-tests, ANOVA, and multivariable logistic regression were used to examine associations between demographic characteristics and knowledge, attitude, and practice scores.
Results:
A total of 3,779 oncologists participated, with a mean age of 36.92 ± 9.24 years; 53.1% were female. Most participants were medical oncologists (50.0%), followed by clinical oncologists (23.4%) and radiation oncologists (18.8%). Nearly half had 0-9 years of professional practice, and the largest proportion were from Iraq (21.4%). In multivariable analysis, oncologists aged ≥56 years had lower odds of good knowledge (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.58-0.98, p = 0.04). Female participants showed higher odds of good knowledge (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.02-1.46, p = 0.03) and positive attitudes (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 0.99-1.45, p = 0.04) than males. Post-doctorate holders also had greater odds of good knowledge (OR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.25-1.97, p = 0.01) and positive attitudes (OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.20-1.87, p = 0.01) compared with those holding a medical bachelor's degree. Longer professional experience, ≥10 years in the cancer field, and previous exposure to chemotherapy resistance cases were also associated with better knowledge and more positive attitudes.
Conclusion:
The findings highlight important gaps in oncologists' knowledge and practices regarding chemotherapy resistance. Targeted educational programs and continuous professional development, particularly in underrepresented regions, may help strengthen clinical preparedness and improve chemotherapy resistance management.
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