Thesis Format
Monograph
Degree
Master of Science
Program
Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Supervisor
Garg, Amit
2nd Supervisor
Sontrop, Jessica
Co-Supervisor
3rd Supervisor
Welk, Blayne
Co-Supervisor
Abstract
This population-based study used administrative healthcare data to examine the uptake of tests recommended for colorectal cancer screening by eligible Ontario physicians and non-physicians, and to examine if testing of primary care physicians is associated with greater testing in their patients. Physicians (n=11,434) were matched 1:4 to non-physicians (n=45,736) on age, sex, and geographic location as of April 21, 2016. Uptake of colorectal tests was similar in physicians (67.9%, 95% CI, 67.0–68.7%) and non-physicians (66.6%, 95% CI, 66.2–67.1%). Physicians were more likely than non-physicians to undergo colonoscopy and less likely to undergo fecal occult blood testing. Uptake of colorectal tests by primary care physicians was associated with greater testing in their patients (adjusted prevalence ratio, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.08–1.12). These results highlight the opportunity for greater screening of physicians, who may in turn positively influence screening in their patients.
Summary for Lay Audience
This study used several databases to examine the uptake of colorectal cancer screening among 11,434 physicians and 45, 736 screen-eligible non-physicians in Ontario. Overall uptake of colorectal tests was similar in physicians (67.9%) and non-physicians (66.6%). Physicians were more likely than non-physicians to undergo colonoscopy and less likely to undergo fecal occult blood testing. Patients were also more likely to be tested if their family physician was tested. These results highlight the opportunity for greater screening of physicians, who may in turn positively influence screening in their patients.
Recommended Citation
Litwin, Owen, "Uptake of colorectal cancer screening tests by Ontario physicians." (2019). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 6261.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/6261
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.