Oncofertility: The unmet need.

e23143 Background: Breast cancer incidence has been increasing across the globe and it has become most common cancer among women in Indian population also. The age trend of breast cancer incidence has shown change, with increasing number of women in the young age group( < 35 years) developing breast cancer.With increasing incidence of breast cancer among young women, the question of fertility in these young women becomes a significant issue. Most of these patients are in a state of shock when they are detectedwith cancer. It becomes the utmost responsibility of the treating oncologist to discuss about fertility issueswith the patient. This study was done to determine the prevalent knowledge, practice and attitude among oncologist across various parts in India with respect to fertility issues. Methods: We performed an online survey among oncologist spread across the country. The survey included questions aimed to identify their knowledge and attitude towards fertility preservation in young breast cancer patients and what they actually practice. Also demography details of the oncologist were recorded to identity and socioeconomic or cultural variations affecting their practice behaviour. Their response was graded and analysis done using SPSS software. Results: A total of 123 oncologists had completed the survey. Among the responders majority were surgical oncologist (68.3%) followed by medical and radiation oncologist with majority doing Institution based practice. Most of the oncologists were aware of the literature available for onco fertility discussion with patient. 84.91%responders had the knowledge that this discussion should be initiated at the time of diagnosis of disease. There were no significant disparity among respondents with respect to location and site of practice in terms of knowledge 88.68% were comfortable in discussing these issues with the patients; however, majority of responders felt that very few patients came out to discuss options of onco fertility (less than 25% of patients). Most of the responders were aware of the facilities available for appropriate referrals In practice, 63.4% said they had offered information, however patient has declined to take any further step . 22.76% of responders had actually successfully referred at least one patient for fertility consultation. Conclusions: There seems to be a positive trend in terms of fertility conservation among oncologist, however study has identified a lack of willingness among young Indian breast cancer patients to seek such treatments.