Knowledge of endometrial cancer risk factors in a general gynecologic population

• Published in: Gynecologic oncology 2020-07, Vol.158 (1), p.137-142
• Main Authors: Washington, Christina R., Haggerty, Ashley, Ronner, Wanda, Neff, Pamela M., Ko, Emily M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Communication; Endometrial Cancer; Endometrial Neoplasms - epidemiology; Endometrial Neoplasms - etiology; Epidemiological survey; Female; Health Behavior; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Humans; Middle Aged; Obesity; Obesity - complications; Obesity - epidemiology; Patient education; Patient Education as Topic - statistics & numerical data; Patient knowledge; Physician-Patient Relations; Risk Factors; Socioeconomic Factors; Surveys and Questionnaires; United States - epidemiology
• ISSN: 0090-8258; 1095-6859
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2020.03.032

To determine knowledge regarding endometrial cancer (EC) risk factors in a general gynecologic patient population. A questionnaire survey regarding health behaviors and knowledge of risk factors of EC was administered to patients presenting for routine gynecologic care at two general gynecologic practices affiliated with a tertiary-care center between August and October 2014. Patient demographics, lifestyle information, and knowledge regarding EC risk factors were assessed. Data were analyzed using univariable and bivariable analyses, Χ2 tests, Fischer's exact tests, and t-tests. 231 women responded. Median age was 56 years old (IQR 25–64), and 87% were Caucasian. Median BMI was 24.9 (IQR 22.3–29.2). 24.7% were overweight and 24.3% obese. The majority (69.4%) of patients received a college or graduate degree. Over half of the women (52.1%) did not know that obesity was associated with increased risk of EC. When dichotomized based on obese vs non obese, there was no difference in patients' knowledge of the association between obesity and EC (47% vs 48%, respectively, p = .93). 91% of all respondents reported that their gynecologist or primary care physician had never discussed the risks of EC with them. Regardless of education level, age or obesity status, the majority of women did not know the common risks of EC. Increased efforts towards educating women regarding obesity and other risk factors of EC are necessary in order to reduce the rising incidence of EC, a predominantly obesity-driven disease. Interventions must include general obstetrician-gynecologists and primary care providers. •The key finding of this study was the lack of knowledge of the common risk factors associated with endometrial cancer (EC).•91% of respondents reported that their physician never had a discussion about the risks of EC.•This study adds evidence to show that increased education about EC is needed within the general gynecology population.