Background: Factors contributing to medical students' self-perceived competency in cancer screening examinations have not been well studied.
Methods: Ending third-year students of UCLA Medical School were surveyed to assess their self-perceived competency and training in performing clinical breast, Pap smear, digital rectal, and skin cancer examinations. Analysis of variance was conducted to compare the differences in competency ratings. Multiple regression analysis was applied to identify predictors of competency.
Results: Fifty-two (67%) of the 78 third-year medical students sampled participated in the study. They reported being least (p < 0.001) competent in performing skin cancer examinations. The number of times practicing screening examinations was the most significant (p < 0.001) educational predictor for self-reported competency in every area except skin cancer. More practice is needed in each screening exam before students feel somewhat or extremely competent.
Conclusion: Student hands-on experience is crucial in the development of cancer screening competency.