From knowledge to capacity: Evaluating lung cancer screening readiness among physicians in Cameroon.

503 Background: Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have limited initiatives for early detection, despite lung cancer being one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In Cameroon, the increasing prevalence of tobacco use and limited access to diagnostic infrastructure necessitate that the effectiveness of lung cancer screening initiatives rely on the awareness and involvement of frontline healthcare providers (HCPs). This study evaluates the knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers to lung cancer screening among physicians in Cameroon. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey from February to April 2025, involving medical doctors in both public and private health facilities in Cameroon. A structured, self-administered questionnaire evaluated sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of risk factors for lung cancer and screening methods, attitudes toward the implementation of screening, perceived barriers, and readiness to participate in training. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were conducted. Results: A total of 86 healthcare providers were involved in the study. A majority of respondents were under 40 years of age (83%) and possessed less than 5 years of professional experience (73%). Seventy-nine percent of participants indicated familiarity with risk factors for lung cancer; however, only 35% of them recognized low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) as a recommended screening method. Chest X-ray was the most frequently recognized modality. 91% of participants regarded lung cancer screening as a national priority; however, 62% identified limited access to LDCT and 54% highlighted a lack of awareness among providers as significant barriers. Only 12% had undergone formal training in screening; however, 88% indicated a desire to participate in future educational workshops. Conclusions: Cameroonian physicians demonstrated significant interest yet possess limited knowledge concerning evidence-based practices for lung cancer screening, specifically LDCT. Providers in the early stages of their careers, along with general practitioners, demonstrated greater engagement and a willingness to pursue additional training. Major challenges include infrastructural deficiencies and inadequate professional training. The findings highlight the necessity for focused awareness campaigns and training programs for providers to enhance early lung cancer detection and elevate the quality of cancer care in resource-limited environments.