Oncologists' Views on VTE Risk Assessment in Cancer Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Tariq Marwa Akram, Mikhael Ehab Mudher
Primary Institution: Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Al-Diwaniyah, Iraq
Hypothesis
What are the perceptions and practices of oncologists regarding venous thromboembolism risk assessment in ambulatory cancer patients?
Conclusion
Oncologists in Baghdad rarely conduct VTE risk assessments for cancer patients, and when they do prescribe prophylactic anticoagulants, they often do so inappropriately.
Supporting Evidence
- 64% of oncologists reported not conducting VTE risk assessments.
- 58% of oncologists prescribed thromboprophylaxis for high-risk patients.
- Only 11% of oncologists prescribed anticoagulants in appropriate doses.
Takeaway
Doctors who treat cancer patients often don't check for blood clots, which can be dangerous, and when they do give medicine to prevent clots, they sometimes give the wrong amount.
Methodology
A qualitative study using face-to-face interviews with oncologists in Baghdad, Iraq, analyzed through thematic analysis.
Potential Biases
Potential social desirability bias may affect the accuracy of oncologists' responses.
Limitations
The study relies on self-reported data from oncologists, which may be subject to bias.
Participant Demographics
The majority of participants were male oncologists with significant clinical experience.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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