Discussing alcohol and cancer with patients: knowledge and practices of general practitioners in New South Wales and South Australia
Date
2016
Authors
Wellard, L.
Corsini, N.
Hughes, C.
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Journal article
Citation
Australian Family Physician, 2016; 45(8):588-593
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Abstract
Background: Alcohol is associated with several cancers; however, the Australian community has low awareness of the link between alcohol consumption and cancer. Little information exists regarding when and why general practitioners (GPs) discuss alcohol with patients.
Objectives: The objective of this article is to explore GPs' attitudes and practices when discussing alcohol with patients. This includes awareness of alcohol recommendations and evidence of the alcohol-cancer link, and discussion around barriers and enablers to encouraging patients' alcohol behaviour change.
Method: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 28 GPs.
Results: GPs did not routinely ask patients about their alcohol consumption or advise on drinking recommendations. Many had a broad understanding of alcohol as a cancer risk factor, but knowledge of the causal mechanisms and current evidence was limited.
Discussion: GPs are trusted health advisers. Providing them with up-to-date evidence on the alcohol-cancer link and drinking recommendations may encourage routine patient screening of alcohol consumption and delivery of simple education on the harms of long-term drinking.
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Copyright 2016 Royal Australian College of General Practitioners