Evaluation of the gynaecological oncology situation in the European Community countries.

: At the end of 1991 an enquiry was sent to 40 doctors recognized as experts in Gynaecological Oncology in the E.C. countries to establish the situation of this sub or superspecialty and 32 (80%) answers were received. Inside the E.C. countries only the United Kingdom recognized the subspecialty of Gynaecological Oncology. Concerning the other 11 countries, except Denmark, their experts (invited to answer the questionnaire) consider it is necessary to individualize Gynaecological Oncology as a sub or a superspecialty. Before a training period of 24 or 36 months in Gynaecological Oncology, it is necessary to have the specialty of Obstetrics/Gynaecology. The training period must include 50% or 60% in diagnosis and surgical treatment, 10% in radiotherapy (only theoretical), 10% or 20% in medical oncology (theoretical and practical), 5% or 10% in oncological pathology, basic sciences and general aspects of cancer. Breast diseases, including breast cancer, must be a part of the training in Gynaecological Oncology and at the end of this period an evaluation test must be made. Lastly, the health authorities, of each country, are the best able to recognize the individualization of Gynaecological Oncology.