Primary Care Physicians’ Cancer Screening RecommendationPractices and Perceptions of Cancer Risk of Asian Americans

Abstract

Asian Americans experience disproportionate incidence and mortality rates of certain cancers, compared toother racial/ethnic groups. Primary care physicians are a critical source for cancer screening recommendationsand play a significant role in increasing cancer screening of their patients. This study assessed primary carephysicians' perceptions of cancer risk in Asians and screening recommendation practices. Primary care physicianspracticing in New Jersey and New York City (n=100) completed a 30-question survey on medical practicecharacteristics, Asian patient communication, cancer screening guidelines, and Asian cancer risk. Liver cancerand stomach cancer were perceived as higher cancer risks among Asian Americans than among the generalpopulation, and breast and prostate cancer were perceived as lower risks. Physicians are integral public healthliaisons who can be both influential and resourceful toward educating Asian Americans about specific cancerawareness and screening information.