Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Health Practitioners towards Fertility Preservation in Cancer Patients in an Environmental Region of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background. Cancer patients face multiple challenges, such as infertility caused by exposure to gonadotoxic agents and gonadal irradiation during cancer treatment. Little is known about the health practitioners’ knowledge and practice regarding fertility preservation and its available options in Saudi Arabia. Thus, this study is designed to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) towards fertility preservation in cancer patients among health practitioners in an environmental region in Saudi Arabia. Methods. The cross-sectional study was carried out between September 2020 and January 2021. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed among health practitioners from a variety of specialties who work closely with cancer patients. Results. Out of 100 participants, 90% need more knowledge about fertility preservation. The lack of fertility preservation clinics in the patient’s area and its unaffordable expenses significantly influenced the health practitioners’ attitude towards fertility preservation discussion with cancer patients. The results revealed that 92% of the participants agreed that the Saudi Ministry of Health should establish practice guidelines and provide fertility preservation services for cancer patients. Conclusions. The present study showed that clinical practitioners’ knowledge remains insufficient. Education of health practitioners and the establishment of practice guidelines and fertility preservation clinics for cancer patients are required.