Knowledge, perceptions and attitudes toward diabetes care in oncology: a pilot survey across specialties (DiaLog Study)
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Managing diabetes in patients with cancer requires balancing oncologic priorities with safe glycemic targets. Evidence describing how trainees from different specialties approach this interface is limited. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional pilot survey among 111 physicians (Internal Medicine n = 50; Endocrinology n = 19; Medical Oncology n = 42). The questionnaire comprised four knowledge (T/F), eight perception, and four attitude items. Scores were computed as total knowledge (0–4), perception (0–32), and a composite attitude score (6–14) formed by summing the treatment attitude subscale (0–12) and the steroid attitude item (0–4) after harmonizing item directions. Non-parametric tests compared groups; associations used Spearman’s rho and ordinal/linear regression. Reliability was assessed with Cronbach’s alpha. RESULTS: Median knowledge, perception, and composite attitude scores were 2, 18, and 11, respectively; no overall differences were observed across specialties. Perception items differed for the cardiovascular impact of poor glycemic control in patients with short life expectancy (p = 0.037), the safety of short-term steroids in advanced disease (p = 0.0017), and the potential harm of steroids with immunotherapy (p = 0.048). Avoidance of steroids in patients with uncontrolled glycemia differed by specialty (p = 0.0014). Correlations showed knowledge modestly associated with perception (ρ = 0.348) and attitude (ρ = 0.212), while perception more…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 50 participants or records.
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