Qeios
Barriers to Cancer Cachexia Management Among Nigerian Physicians
By Izuegbuna O, Ugwu NI, Durotoye I and 4 others.
Abstract
Background
Cancer cachexia is a devastating multifactorial syndrome that significantly contributes to morbidity and mortality in oncology patients. Despite the availability of international evidence-based guidelines, effective management remains challenging, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. No prior study has systematically evaluated the barriers to cancer cachexia management among physicians in Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation.
Methods
A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 242 Nigerian physicians across eight specialties (family medicine, haematology, gynaecological oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, anaesthesiology, gastroenterology, and dental surgery) who manage cancer patients. A barrier grading system (grade 0: <25%, grade 1: 25-50%, grade 2: 50-75%, grade 3: >75%) was developed across five domains: confidence, knowledge, perception, personal practice, and education.