# Gauging the Awareness of Physicians in Saudi Arabia Regarding Risk Factors for Thyroid Cancer

## TL;DR

This study finds that many physicians in Saudi Arabia are unaware of obesity as a risk factor for thyroid cancer.

## Contribution

The study highlights a gap in physician knowledge about obesity's role in thyroid cancer risk in Saudi Arabia.

## Key findings

- Only 36.8% of physicians were aware of the link between obesity and thyroid cancer risk.
- Awareness varied significantly by sex, education, and years of experience.
- There is a need for improved medical education on thyroid cancer risk factors.

## Abstract

Background

The prevalence of obesity and thyroid cancer (TC) is increasing worldwide, and obesity is a risk factor for TC.

Objectives

This study aimed to elucidate physicians’ awareness of obesity as a risk factor for TC.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional, self-report online questionnaire was distributed to physicians in all regions of Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire comprised sociodemographic data and questions concerning the risk factors for TC, including obesity.

Results

A total of 310 physicians participated in this study. Of the respondents, 35.8% (n = 111) were aged 30-40 years, 40.6% (n = 126) were board certified, and 52.3% (n = 162) had >10 years of experience. Only 36.8% (n = 114) of respondents were familiar with the relationship between obesity and TC risk (P < 0.001). In terms of knowledge of obesity as a risk factor for TC, a significant difference was observed for the following sociodemographic characteristics: sex, educational attainment, and years of experience. A significant difference was also observed with awareness of other risk factors for TC.

Conclusions

In light of the limited awareness of the correlation between obesity and TC, the most effective approach to address these misconceptions would be to implement diverse and ongoing medical education initiatives.