Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the US, the third most diagnosed cancer in women, and the second leading cause of cancer death in women. The aims of our study are to (1) investigate knowledge of and adherence to CRC screening guidelines by obstetrician-gynecologists (Ob/Gyns) and (2) assess whether this knowledge/adherence vary by demographic and practice characteristics. Methods: An anonymous cross-sectional survey was distributed to a convenience sample of 142 practicing Obs/Gyns drawn from National Medical Association section members/conference attendees and hospital Ob/Gyn department members. Results: Most respondents (80.3%) viewed colorectal screening within the scope of Ob/Gyn practice, and 71.8% used the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines for screening. Most respondents were knowledgeable regarding CRC screening but not in all areas. On average they only identified half of the 10 risk factors listed and only one-quarter correctly identified the age when screening can stop. Residents were somewhat more knowledgeable about screening guidelines and risk factors than attendings. More than half of respondents (57.8%) reported always initiating CRC screening for the appropriate age and risk factors. Respondents identified education and awareness (56.3%) and patients' unwillingness to undergo an invasive procedure (75.4%) as barriers to screening. Conclusions: Knowledge regarding CRC screening was less than optimal and differed by attending/resident status. Greater emphasis should be placed on CRC screening and guidelines training for primary care providers like Ob/Gyns. Some of this could be accomplished through maintenance of certification and continued integration into residency education.

INTRODUCTION: Colorectal cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. Surveys show that physicians have an influence in the rates of colorectal screening. This study investigates whether a lack of colorectal screening knowledge prevents Ob/Gyns of different academic levels and practice types from effectively screening colorectal cancer. METHODS: An IRB approved, validated survey eliciting colorectal screening guidelines, practices, and potential barriers to screening was circulated online, at the National Medical Association national conference, ACOG District II conference, and the New York City Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan Dept of Ob/Gyn between October 2018 to January 2019. RESULTS: A total of 142 respondents answered the survey. Only one out of 142 respondents (0.7%) answered correctly the question which identified all of the risk factors for colorectal cancer. A significant difference was noted in correctly identifying risk factors when comparing attendings (36.6%) and residents (75%) P=.004. Most respondents were able to correctly identify age to start screening (93.6%), but fewer were able to correctly identify age to stop screening (23.2%). For screening intervals, 76.8% correctly answered for colonoscopy, 66.9% correctly answered for flexible sigmoidoscopy. A significant difference was noted after stratifying for age (ages 20-40 vs 50-70s P=.003), gender (women vs men P=.01), and academic level (resident vs attending P=.03): younger, resident, and female physicians provided more correct answers. CONCLUSION: Difference in colorectal cancer screening knowledge between residents and attendings contributes to less than effective screening. Education on colorectal cancer should focus on attendings through maintenance of certification and continued integration in residency education.