Colorectal cancer: knowledge and attitude of surgeons in New Zealand.

In order to determine surgeons' knowledge of colorectal cancer (CRC) in New Zealand, a questionnaire was sent to all general surgeons on the New Zealand Medical register. One hundred and thirty-three responses were received and 123 were analysed. In general, respondents seemed to have a better detailed knowledge of CRC than Australian physicians and surgeons, although trends were similar and knowledge was patchy and in some areas poor. The value of rectal examination and sigmoidoscopy in relation to the detection of colorectal neoplasia was overestimated. Knowledge of faecal occult blood testing was such as to preclude useful evaluation of test results. The findings have serious implications for medical education.