Targeted melanoma prevention intervention: a cluster randomized controlled trial.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Public Health
• Cancer Prevention Research

Background:

• Melanoma prevention and early detection are crucial for reducing mortality.
• Targeted interventions show potential for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a targeted screening and education intervention on patient melanoma prevention behaviors.
• To assess the effectiveness of the Self-Assessment Melanoma Risk Score (SAMScore) in identifying high-risk individuals.

Main Methods:

• A pilot clustered randomized controlled trial was conducted in 20 French private surgeries.
• The intervention group received targeted screening using SAMScore, skin examination, and counseling.
• The control group received a conventional information campaign.

Main Results:

• Intervention patients recalled the campaign more and identified their melanoma risk better than controls (81.4% vs 50.0% and 71.1% vs 42.1%, respectively).
• Prevention behaviors improved: less sunbathing (24.7% vs 40.8%) and more skin self-examinations (52.6% vs 36.8%) in the intervention group.
• No significant adverse effects were noted, though increased melanoma worry and GP consultations were observed.

Conclusions:

• Combining SAMScore, GP examination, and counseling effectively promotes melanoma risk-reducing behaviors.
• Further research is needed to extend follow-up and demonstrate impact on melanoma morbidity and mortality.