| ORIGINAL ARTICLE |
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| Year : 2019 | Volume
: 2
| Issue : 1 | Page : 6-14 |
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Perception, attitude and knowledge regarding radiotherapy among physicians at a tertiary care center
Kuldeep Sharma, Anita Malik
Department of Radiation Oncology, Venkateshwar Hospital, Dwarka, New Delhi, India
Correspondence Address:
Dr. Kuldeep Sharma
Department of Radiation Oncology, Venkateshwar Hospital, Sector 18, Dwarka, New Delhi 110075
India
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None
DOI: 10.4103/JCO.JCO_1_19
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Objective: Cancer is a leading health problem of today’s world and radiotherapy (RT) is an integral modality to treat cancers. Unfortunately, RT remains an underutilized specialty worldwide because of the lack of knowledge and wrong perceptions among referring physicians toward this specialty. These concerns and fear may discourage physicians from referring patients for RT. This study was conducted to explore the knowledge, attitude, and perception of non-radiation oncology physicians toward this specialty. Materials and Methods: This was a questionnaire-based study including 63 participants conducted at a tertiary care hospital in New Delhi, India. Results: Although the survey completion rate of 95% was encouraging, our study revealed deficiencies in training and knowledge about cancer, principles of RT, and its beneficial effects. Although most of the participants appreciated the role of RT as a core specialty, many underscored its true potential and cost-effectiveness in cancer care. There were significant concerns regarding its side effects (most important reason for non-referral) and lack of familiarity with this specialty. Conclusion: Fortunately, in spite of knowledge gaps, there was a positive attitude toward learning in future among participants. |
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