Increasing Participation Rates in Germany's Skin Cancer Screening Program (HELIOS): Protocol for a Mixed Methods...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Dermatology
• Health Communication

Background:

• A nationwide skin cancer screening (SCS) program was established in Germany in 2008.
• Despite the program's existence, participation rates remain suboptimal.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify subgroup-specific invitation and communication strategies.
• To increase informed participation in skin cancer screening (SCS) within Germany.

Main Methods:

• Focus group discussions were conducted to explore barriers and motivators for SCS participation.
• An online questionnaire was developed and administered to a random sample of 2500 individuals aged over 35.
• Statistical analyses, including multinomial logistic regression and cluster analysis, were performed.

Main Results:

• Participant recruitment for focus groups began in February 2021 and was ongoing as of August 2021, with 39 participants enrolled.
• Qualitative study enrollment was expected to conclude in September 2021, with analysis completion by December 2021.
• The second phase of the study was scheduled to commence in January 2022.

Conclusions:

• The project's outcomes will inform the development of enhanced invitation and communication strategies for SCS.
• These improved strategies are anticipated to boost SCS uptake.
• Ultimately, this aims to facilitate earlier detection of skin cancer.