Fatma Kılıç Hamzaoğlu, Emine Türen Demir
Anatolian Current Medical Journal - 2025;7(6):861-867
Aims: Gynecological cancers are among the most common malignancies in women, and awareness, early diagnosis, and prevention are essential to reducing morbidity and mortality. While studies largely focus on the general population, little is known about awareness among female academic physicians who serve as both clinicians and educators. This study evaluated gynecological cancer awareness among female academic physicians at Necmettin Erbakan University Training and Research Hospital and examined differences by socio-demographic and professional factors. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted between July 12 and August 1, 2025. Data were collected online using a Personal Information Form and the 41-item Gynecological Cancers Awareness Scale (GCAS). Of 110 distributed forms, 76 were complete and eligible. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 with descriptive statistics, t-test, and ANOV A. Tukey's post-hoc test identified group differences. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The mean age of participants was 48.87+/-8.00 years; 75.0% were married, 44.7% were professors, and 53.9% had prior education on gynecological cancers. The mean GCAS total score was 121.79+/-13.80, indicating moderate-to-high awareness. Awareness was significantly associated with being younger (35-44 years), holding an assistant professorship, having 1-5 years of academic experience, as well as reporting a family history, prior education, or regular screening habits (p<0.05). No significant differences were observed by marital or childbearing status (p>0.05). Conclusion: Gynecological cancer awareness among female academic physicians is moderate but uneven across groups. Educational interventions, continuing professional development, and encouragement of regular screenings are needed to strengthen awareness in this cohort, which could enhance both personal preventive practices and community health advocacy.
