P. N. Eneh1, D. Hogan3, S. Theiler1, J. O’Donnell1, C. Nwogu2,4 1Dartmouth Medical School,Lebanon, NH, USA 2Roswell Park Cancer Institute, University At Buffalo SUNY,Departments Of Thoracic Surgery And Cancer Prevention,Buffalo, NY, USA 3Havana Specialist Hospital,Lagos, LAGOS, Nigeria 4Lakeshore Cancer Center,Lagos, LAGOS, Nigeria
Introduction: Cancer incidence rates are still on the rise around the world with developing countries experiencing the most deaths from preventable cancers. Nigeria is one of such nations currently experiencing an increase in cancer mortality rates. A contributing factor to these high rates may be the lack of knowledge about cancer screening and care among the caregivers. Cancer control efforts in developing countries must include education of healthcare providers who are in a position to positively influence patient screening behavior.
Methods: A needs assessment was completed at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital in Lagos Nigeria to investigate the level of cancer knowledge, and evaluate attitudes of physicians and medical students. 51 medical students and 48 physicians completed the surveys.
Results: Out of the 23 cervical and breast cancer knowledge questions, the mean percent correct responses were 76% for the physicians and 71% for the students. While many physicians recognized the need for early screening and treatment, only 38% said they perform routine breast and cervical cancer screening in their practice. The surveys also showed that the majority of responders are interested in cancer education programs.
Conclusion: This gap between knowledge and practice needs further investigation. As cancer education programs in Nigeria continue, it is important to assess the level of knowledge among healthcare providers in order for these efforts to be designed to meet local needs.