Actual and Potential Role of Primary Care Physicians in Cancer Prevention

Abstract

Although the role of primary care in cancer prevention has been proven, its assumptions are still insufficiently implemented and the actual rates of cancer prevention advice delivery remain low. Our study aimed to identify the actual and potential role of primary care physicians (PCPs) in the cancer prevention area. Design of the study is a cross-sectional one, based on a survey of 450 PCPs who took part in a nationwide educational project in Poland. Only 30% of PCPs provide cancer prevention advice routinely in their practice, whereas 70% do that only sometimes. PCPs’ actual role in cancer prevention is highly unexploited. They inquire routinely about the patient’s smoking history (71.1%), breast cancer screening program (43.7%), cervical cancer screening (41.1%), patient’s alcohol consumption (34%), patient’s physical activity levels (32.3%), body mass index (29.6%), the patient’s eating habits (28%) and patient’s potential for sun/UV-Ray exposure (5.7%). The potential role of PCPs in cancer prevention is still underestimated and underutilized. Action should be taken to raise awareness and understanding that PCPs can provide cancer prevention advice. Since lack of time is the main obstacle to providing cancer prevention advice routinely, systemic means must be undertaken to enable PCPs to utilize their unquestionable role in cancer prevention.

Awareness of Genitourinary Cancers Risk Factors—A 2024 Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study in Poland

“…Education on obesityrelated cancers is difficult due to the reality of obesity stigma [33]. Nevertheless, there is a need to educate people on health consequences of obesity, especially in countries with high overweight and obesity prevalence, like Poland [23].…”

“…Moreover, education on different types of cancers (including kidney and bladder cancer) is carried out by non-governmental organizations (NGOs), including those run by patient representatives [22]. Physicians, including general practitioners, are encouraged to provide basic education on cancer risk factors as a part of preventive services, but the involvement of physicians in health education is limited [23]. Nationwide data on public awareness of genitourinary cancer risk factors may inform policymakers and healthcare professionals on current needs for the prevention and control of genitourinary cancers [22,23].…”

Exploring the geospatial epidemiology of breast cancer in Iran: identifying significant risk factors and spatial patterns for evidence-based prevention strategies

“…In contrast, lower physician regions have limited screening, potentially delaying diagnosis and lowering observed incidence despite advanced disease. Primary care physicians play key roles in prevention through education, counseling, and facilitating informed decisions [ 76 ]. However, physician-outcome associations vary geographically, indicating contextual influences on healthcare access [ 77 ].…”