Public awareness and provider counseling regarding postmenopausal bleeding as a symptom of endometrial cancer

This survey study found that only two-thirds of participants recognized postmenopausal bleeding as a symptom of endometrial cancer, and the percent of participants who reported receiving counseling from providers about postmenopausal bleeding was low. The survey also found a relatively low likelihood of presenting for evaluation after an episode of postmenopausal bleeding, which highlights the need for improved patient education, provider education, and patient counseling regarding endometrial cancer. ObjectivesOur study aims to understand public knowledge of postmenopausal bleeding as an endometrial cancer symptom and how past provider counseling on postmenopausal bleeding affects knowledge and care-seeking behaviors related to postmenopausal bleeding.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional survey study of people assigned female at birth. Study participants were recruited at a university research facility located at the Minnesota State Fair in September 2021. Participants answered questions about demographics, endometrial cancer knowledge, whether they had received counseling about postmenopausal bleeding, and whether and when they would present for care after experiencing postmenopausal bleeding.ResultsSix hundred forty-eight surveys were completed and included in analyses. Sixty-three percent of participants identified postmenopausal bleeding as a symptom of endometrial cancer. Those who correctly selected this symptom were more likely to be born in the United States, have a college education or higher, and have private insurance. Of the 145 postmenopausal participants, 46.5% reported that their provider counseled them on postmenopausal bleeding. Fifty-nine percent of the postmenopausal participants reported that they would tell their provider if they had postmenopausal bleeding after only one episode.ConclusionsThere is a need for increased recognition of postmenopausal bleeding and provider counseling on postmenopausal bleeding, and educational interventions should focus on public and provider awareness of endometrial cancer risks and symptoms.