Physician gender differences in general and cancer-specific prevention attitudes and practices
Ramirez, A.G.; Wildes, K.A.; Nápoles-Springer, A.; Pérez-Stable, E.; Talavera, G.; Rios, E.
Journal of Cancer Education the Official Journal of the American Association for Cancer Education 24(2): 85-93
2009
ISSN/ISBN: 0885-8195 PMID: 19431022 DOI: 10.1080/08858190802664396Document Number: 581392
Findings are inconsistent regarding physician gender differences in general prevention practices and cancer-specific attitudes and practices. We analyzed cross-sectional data from randomly selected physicians (N = 722) to test associations of gender with prevention practices and attitudes. Chi-square analyses (P < .05) showed gender differences for 14% (7/49) of the general and cancer-specific practices and attitudes tested. Multivariate analyses revealed that gender significantly (P < .05) predicted general prevention practices and cancer-specific attitudes in 4 models. Female gender predicted discussion of physical activity, violence, and use of substances. Male gender predicted belief in effectiveness of prostate-specific antigen screening. Overall, male and female physicians showed more similarities than differences, but physician gender was associated with a number of important general and cancer-specific prevention services. Female physicians were more likely to discuss general health prevention activities than male physicians, especially issues considered sensitive. We discuss implications for research and education.