Citation

Market M, Grondin M, Boucher DM, Malic C. Educ. Health Change Learn. Pract. 2023; 36(1): 38-46.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, Network of Community-Oriented Educational Institutions for Health Sciences, Publisher Network Towards Unity for Health)

DOI

10.4103/efh.efh_18_22

PMID

38047346

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Despite female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) practices being an illegal form of gender-based violence in Canada, this practice impacts many Canadians. Lack of education and training among Canadian health-care providers has resulted in systematic barriers to care. Awareness and FGM/C-related education among Canadian health-care providers must be urgently assessed.

METHODS: Canadian medical students were recruited to complete an anonymous survey via E-mails distributed through their schools' student organization between January and March 2021. We evaluated student understanding of FGM/C, attitudes toward medicalization and legislation, and prior clinical experience using multiple choice, Likert scale, and open-response questions.

RESULTS: Respondents (n = 135) performed poorly on knowledge assessment questions (mean percent correct <50%). Only 10.4% of respondents indicated knowing how to involve appropriate authorities when necessary, and most never evaluate FGM/C in patient history (86.7%) or clinical examination (57.1%). Subgroup analysis revealed that prior education significantly improved knowledge scores and influenced students' behaviors and attitudes. About 92.2% of respondents supported the integration of FGM/C curricula in undergraduate medical education.

DISCUSSION: This study reveals that Canadian medical students have a poor understanding of FGM/C and are not prepared to identify affected patients or intervene when necessary. These results provide rationale for the implementation of FGM/C-learning modules in undergraduate medicine.

Language: en

Keywords

Female; Humans; *Circumcision, Female/methods; *Students, Medical; Canada; Education; female genital mutilation; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Learning; medical students; women's health