Cancer prevention: role of primary care professionals

ABSTRACT

Review the current inputs of primary care professionals in Bahrain in the area of cancer prevention, Three key tasks performed at primary care level were reviewed [female cancer screening, tobacco control, Hepatitis B immunization]. The review is based on data collected from various health statistics, annual reports and national and regional surveys. Cancer is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in Bahrain. Evidence reported that a large proportion of cancer is preventable in nature, and suggest that primary care professionals have a critical role to play in cancer prevention and control. Although the coverage of cervical and breast screening was low [30% and 40%, respectively], yet, the current screening program covers women of lower risk. There is an urgent need to involve primary care professionals in tobacco control and tobacco cessation activities in particular. Follow up for Hepatitis B cases and contacts are identified as a priority area and need further improvement. Guidelines for screening and management of Hepatitis B cases at Primary care level need to be established Primary care professionals can increase their inputs in cancer prevention. Public education about cancer risk factors is priority activity. They require to be involved more in tobacco cessation programs. New measures for female cancer screening are required to improve the role of primary care professionals