Total body skin examination for skin cancer screening among U.S. adults from 2000 to 2010

Melanoma incidence and mortality are increasing among United States adults. At present, routine skin cancer screening via total body skin examinations (TBSEs) by a physician is not recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF); while organizations such as the American Cancer Society recommend screening. Currently, there are limited data on the prevalence, correlates, and trends of TBSE among United States adults.

We analyzed data by race/ethnicity, age, and skin cancer risk level, among other characteristics from three different National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) cancer control supplements conducted every five years since 2000 in random United States households. High-risk status and middle-risk status were defined based on the USPSTF criteria (age, race, sunburn, and family history).

Prevalence of having at least one TBSE increased from 14.5 in 2000 to 16.5 in 2005 to 19.8 in 2010 (P<0.0001). In 2010, screening rates were higher among the elderly, the fair-skinned, those reporting sunburn(s), and individuals with a family history of skin cancer. Approximately 104.7million (51.1%) U.S. adults are at high-risk for developing melanoma, of which 24.0% had at least one TBSE.

TBSE rates have been increasing since 2000 both overall and among higher-risk groups. Data on screening trends could help tailor future prevention strategies.