BMJ  2003;327 (13 September), doi:10.1136/bmj.327.7415.0-c

Oncologists may underestimate the risk of thromboembolism

Many oncologists underestimate the risk of venous thromboembolism, despite the vulnerability of many patients with cancer to the condition. Kirwan and colleagues (p 597) surveyed all oncologists in northern England. Over a quarter thought that their patients were not at risk of venous thromboembolism, independent of the type of tumour treated. Most reported not using prophylaxis routinely in chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or radiotherapy. Over a third of oncologists estimated that less than 1% of their patients were taking prophylactic therapy. The authors say that national guidelines on prophylaxis for venous thromboembolism during cancer treatment are needed.

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Prophylaxis for venous thromboembolism during treatment for cancer: questionnaire survey

C C Kirwan, E Nath, G J Byrne, and C N McCollum
BMJ 2003 327: 597-598. [Full Text] [PDF]