WSAVA demonstrates need for global oncology education
The average score when rating own knowledge of oncology was highest in Chinese-speaking respondents (6.6) and lowest in Ukranian-speaking respondents (4.2).
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has shared that veterinary professionals globally rate their knowledge of oncology at five out of 10, from a recent survey held to ascertain global levels of knowledge of veterinary oncology.
Conducted by the WSAVA Oncology Working Group (WOW), the survey, completed in 10 different languages, found that veterinary professionals rated the importance of oncology cases for their practice at seven out of 10, with little variation between languages.
Dr Jolle Kirpensteijn, member of the WOW Group and former WSAVA president, said: “Cancer is increasingly common in companion animals, with almost 50 per cent of dogs over 10 years of age developing this devastating disease.
“To support WSAVA members effectively in treating oncology patients, we wanted to know where they needed help most urgently.”
The survey also found that the most common type of tumour found in practice was a mammary tumour (81 per cent). The second most common type of tumour encountered was a skin tumour (75 per cent), followed by abdominal tumour (40 per cent), malignant lymphoma (39 per cent) and other tumours (five per cent).
When asked about educational resources, and which topics would be most valuable, chemotherapy protocols was considered to be the most needed, requested by 82 per cent of respondents.
Dr Jolle Kirpensteijn added: “Our survey is the largest the WSAVA has ever conducted and shows the reach of this well-respected association, which works to share best practice in companion animal veterinary care around the world.
“It is salutary to see the huge demand for veterinary oncology education all over the world. We have much to do but are excited at the opportunity to support WSAVA members and to offer new hope to oncology patients and their owners globally.”
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
