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"Let's Talk about Skin Cancer": Examining Association between Family Communication about Skin Cancer, Perceived Risk,
Smita C Banerjee1, Andrew Sussman2, Elizabeth Schofield1
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
Journal of Health Communication
|October 6, 2021
Summary
Family discussions about skin cancer risk are common, with over half of patients talking about it. These conversations often focus on sun protection and personal risk, encouraging sun-safe behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Public Health
- Health Communication
Background:
- Family communication influences health behaviors.
- Prevalence of family discussions about skin cancer risk is not well understood.
- Understanding these communication patterns is key for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and patterns of family communication about skin cancer risk.
- To identify factors associated with family communication on skin cancer.
- To inform interventions promoting sun-safe behaviors.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 600 diverse primary care patients in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
- Assessed prevalence of discussing general and skin cancer risks with family.
- Examined communication content, targets, and associated factors.
Main Results:
- Over 66% discussed skin cancer risk with family, most frequently discussing sun protection (89%).
- Discussions targeted doctors, partners, and various family members.
- Family history of cancer, higher perceived risk, and health literacy were linked to increased communication.
Conclusions:
- Family communication about skin cancer is prevalent and focuses on protective behaviors.
- Interventions can leverage family discussions to promote sun safety and screening.
- Targeted communication strategies can enhance skin cancer prevention efforts.
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