Published online Aug 27, 2023. doi: 10.4240/wjgs.v15.i8.1751
Peer-review started: February 16, 2023
First decision: April 27, 2023
Revised: May 22, 2023
Accepted: June 13, 2023
Article in press: June 13, 2023
Published online: August 27, 2023
Processing time: 189 Days and 23.1 Hours
Gastric cancer is a prevalent and deadly form of cancer worldwide, particularly in China, where it ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Early gastric cancer (EGC) refers to tumors located in the mucosa or submucosa of the stomach, and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is the recommended treatment. However, non-curative resection can occur, leading to an increased risk of local recurrence. Therefore, monitoring the recurrence of gastric cancer after ESD is crucial for early detection and improved survival.
Although monitoring gastric cancer recurrence is important, little is known about the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of EGC survivors regarding this issue. Understanding the KAP of patients can help healthcare practitioners develop strategies to improve monitoring practices and promote early detection of recurrence.
To assess the KAP of EGC survivors after ESD regarding monitoring the recurrence of gastric cancer. Specifically, the study aimed to evaluate KAP related to gastric cancer recurrence, reexamination, and follow-up. Additionally, the study aimed to identify sociodemographic factors associated with monitoring practices.
This cross-sectional study was conducted at a hospital in Zhejiang, China and involved 400 EGC survivors who underwent ESD. Participants completed a self-designed questionnaire consisting of 40 questions divided into four categories: Personal information and KAP. The questionnaire scores were calculated and analyzed using statistical methods, including t-tests, χ2 tests, and logistic regression analysis.
The study found that participants had moderate levels of knowledge, positive attitudes, and moderate levels of practice regarding monitoring gastric cancer recurrence. Knowledge scores were higher among participants from urban areas, with higher education levels, professional occupations, higher family incomes, longer time since the last ESD, and without smoking or alcohol use history. Participants with a longer time since their last ESD and without alcohol consumption had more positive attitudes. Factors associated with good monitoring practices included having medical insurance, longer time since the last ESD, and not smoking or drinking alcohol.
The study highlights the need to improve the knowledge and monitoring practices of EGC survivors after ESD. Educational interventions and targeted strategies should focus on enhancing patient understanding of the importance of monitoring gastric cancer recurrence and promoting regular reexamination and follow-up. Improving knowledge and attitudes can positively influence monitoring practices and contribute to early detection of gastric cancer recurrence.
Future research should focus on developing effective educational programs and interventions to improve patient knowledge and awareness of gastric cancer recurrence after ESD.