Does Experience Predict Knowledge and Behavior With Respect to Cutaneous Melanoma, Moles, and Sun Exposure? Possible Outcome Measures

Abstract

A prospective survey of 3105 adults in 16 randomly selected group practices was conducted to test whether individuals with a personal experience, family history, or other contact with malignant melanoma display more knowledge and appropriate behavior with regard to melanomas and sun exposure than those with no such experience. Although patients with previous contact with the condition were more likely to check for moles, were more aware of the significance of changes in the shape of moles, and were more aware of the necessity for prompt treatment, they were not more knowledgeable about other important signs or more likely to protect themselves from sun exposure. Direct experience or contact with melanoma appeared to have some positive effects on knowledge, but there is no room for complacency for those at increased risk or those treating them. Both primary and secondary prevention for people who are vulnerable could be undertaken in primary care.

Index Terms:

• behavior
• knowledge
• malignant melanoma
• moles
• previous experience
• primary care
• sun exposure

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Arthur Jackson

Dr Jackson is a primary care physician and honorary senior research fellow, and Dr Wilkinson is a professor of general practice in the Division of General Practice at the University of Wales College of Medicine in Wrexham. Dr Hood is a lecturer in statistics, and Dr Pill is a professor of general practice in the Department of General Practice at the University of Wales College of Medicine in Cardiff.