Improving future care: the role of oncofertility education in medical curricula in Germany. Results of a nationwide survey of 346 medical students.

OBJECTIVE

To study the existing knowledge, interests, and attitudes of medical students regarding fertility preservation measures.

DESIGN

A multi-center nationwide survey was conducted among medical students across Germany. The survey consisted of 15 multiple-choice questions and six questions asking participants their level of agreement of a statement.

SUBJECTS: 346 medical students in Germany.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: A multiple-choice questionnaire was used to evaluate the existing knowledge, interest and attitudes of medical students regarding fertility preservation measures.

RESULTS

Regarding the assessment of ovarian reserve, Anti-Müllerian hormone testing was known by 38.8% of students, while only 15.9% were familiar with the antral follicle count method. The most widely recognized fertility preservation (FP) method was oocyte cryopreservation (91.0%), followed by ovarian tissue cryopreservation (45.1%), ovarian transposition surgery prior to pelvic radiation (38.2%), and the use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs for ovarian protection during chemotherapy (28.6%). Regarding reproductive technologies, such as IVF, ICSI, or hormonal stimulation, 87.5% of students expressed a positive opinion. Oocyte donation was perceived positively by 77.6%. The acceptance for uterus transplantation was high among participants with 61.4%. The acceptance for surrogacy was lower with 53.2% of respondents. Social freezing was positively received by most respondents (72.7%). 80.0% of respondents expressed interest in expanding their knowledge of fertility and cancer, and 65.9% desired additional training.

CONCLUSIONS

To ensure high-quality fertility preservation counseling and the implementation of necessary FP measures for all cancer patients of childbearing age, it is crucial that future physicians are familiar with methods for assessing ovarian reserve and fertility preservation techniques. Strengthening oncofertility training in medical education will enhance future physicians' ability to provide informed counseling and timely referrals, ultimately improving patient care and quality of life. This study highlights the urgent need to systematically integrate fertility preservation and oncofertility into the curriculum of medical schools in Germany.