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Published on: August 1, 2019
Cancer control knowledge and priorities among primary care physicians
R C Brownson1, J R Davis, S G Simms
1Division of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Missouri Department of Health, Columbia 65203.
Summary
Primary care physicians show high knowledge but low activity in cancer prevention, particularly tobacco cessation. Early detection practices vary, with lower rates for colon cancer screening, indicating room for improvement in cancer control.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Public Health
- Primary Care Medicine
Background:
- Primary care physicians (PCPs) are crucial for cancer prevention and early detection.
- Assessing PCPs' knowledge and practices in cancer control is vital for improving public health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate cancer control knowledge and priorities among primary care physicians in Missouri.
- To identify gaps in cancer prevention and early detection practices within primary care.
Main Methods:
- A random survey was conducted among 207 primary care physicians in Missouri.
- Data collected included knowledge of cancer causation, engagement in cessation counseling, and screening test activity.
Main Results:
- High knowledge of tobacco's role in cancer, but low activity in cessation counseling.
- Low perceived importance of diet in cancer causation; high importance for sun exposure, genetics, and radiation.
- High activity for Pap tests and breast exams, but low activity for colon sigmoidoscopy.
- Inverse correlation between physician age and cancer prevention/screening practices.
- Medical doctors reported higher activity than doctors of osteopathic medicine.
Conclusions:
- Primary care physicians are not fully realizing their potential in cancer control.
- Areas needing increased emphasis include tobacco cessation, diet's role in cancer, and colon cancer screening.
- Barriers such as cost and patient fear impact screening practices.
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