Ovarian Cancer Knowledge Among Advanced Providers in a University Setting

Ovarian cancer is usually diagnosed at a late stage of the disease. Nurse practitioners and physician assistants are often the first contact, and awareness of the signs and symptoms of the disease may improve diagnosis and outcome. A knowledge survey of risk factors and symptoms was distributed to all nurse practitioners and physician assistants at a university health system. Knowledge of signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer in these providers was low. Early satiety, abdominal fullness, and urinary urgency were frequently missed by both groups. Our findings illustrate the need for the development and availability of materials to address knowledge gaps.