Different professionals' knowledge and perceptions of the management of people with pancreatic cancer

Abstract

Background: Pancreatic cancer is generally associated with a very poor prognosis. The knowledge, beliefs and opinions of clinicians caring for people with pancreatic cancer may affect preferences for particular therapies and may impact upon patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to conduct a postal survey of clinicians who consult patients with pancreatic cancer to assess their knowledge regarding the disease itself and the effectiveness of various treatments, and to gauge their opinions regarding aspects of management. Methods: A 20-item multiple-choice questionnaire was mailed to medical and radiation oncologists, gastroenterologists, general surgeons and hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) ..