MELANOMA AWARENESS AND SELF-EXAMINATION PRACTICES - RESULTS OF A UNITED-STATES SURVEY

Background: Skin cancers are common and there has been a dramatic incr ease in their incidence, particularly melanoma. However, little is kno wn about awareness of melanoma and early detection practices in the ge neral U.S. population. Objective: In 1995, the American Academy of Der matology increased their efforts to promote awareness of melanoma. Thi s study was conducted to document current knowledge of melanoma and se lf-examination practices. Methods: In February 1995, a telephone surve y was conducted in a nationally representative sample of 1001 persons at least 18 years of age (3% margin of error) that included questions on knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding early detection of me lanoma. Results: Almost 42% of those surveyed were unaware of melanoma , and only 26% of those who were aware could identify its specific sig ns. Most recognized at least one common risk factor for melanoma (e.g. , sun exposure, fair skin). However, many did not distinguish melanoma from other skin cancers in terms of risk factors, signs of early dise ase, and body site distribution. The lowest measures of melanoma knowl edge and attitudes were found among those who are male, nonwhite, and parents, and those with the lowest level of education and income. More than half (54%) did not conduct a self-examination. This practice was most frequently reported by women, white persons, and the elderly, as well as those with a greater knowledge of melanoma. Conclusion: Our r esearch documents deficiencies in knowledge and practices related to e arly detection of melanoma in the general U.S. population and supports the need for public education about melanoma.