Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe
Offener Zugang
ISSN: 2161-0932
ISSN: 2161-0932
Ramya Sindi*
Introduction: Fertility of cancer patients can be threatened by chemotherapy and gonadal irradiation during the course of cancer treatment. Little is known about fertility services and the role of health practitioner regarding fertility preservation options for cancer patients in Saudi Arabia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the awareness level, knowledge and attitude toward fertility preservation among cancer patients in Makkah region through a cross-sectional study. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 132 cancer patients from Makkah region aged 14 to 85 years old were asked to complete an approved closed-ended questionnaire contained 17 questions about patients’ sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge and attitude towards fertility preservation. The data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism (version 8.0) software. Results: The study revealed that about 50% of respondents were aware about fertility preservation. The majority of participants had never discussed fertility preservation options with their consultant/doctor nor referred to fertility clinic before commencing the treatment. Most patients agreed that the Saudi Ministry of Health should increase their awareness role toward fertility preservation and recommended public fertility services for cancer patients. Conclusion: The current study showed good awareness level towards fertility preservation among cancer patients in Makkah region. However, knowledge and practice attitude among general public and clinicians remains insufficient. Government fertility services and referral center should set up to enhance general knowledge and attitude about available options for fertility preservation. Further studies in the field of cancer care and fertility preservation rights in Saudi Arabia are required.