Awareness of Melanoma and Skin Self-Examination at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Pakistan: A Study of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Melanoma awareness is critically low, with most people unaware of the risks and benefits of skin self-examination (SSE). Public education is vital to improve early detection and survival rates for this lethal skin cancer.
Area Of Science
- Dermatology
- Public Health
- Oncology
Background
- Melanoma is the deadliest skin cancer, often detected late due to lack of public awareness regarding moles and self-examination.
- Early detection through consistent skin self-examination (SSE) significantly improves survival rates for melanoma.
- May is recognized as Melanoma Awareness Month, highlighting the need for public education.
Purpose Of The Study
- To assess the general public's awareness of melanoma and the practice of skin self-examination (SSE).
Main Methods
- A prospective, survey-based study conducted via interviews in Lahore General Hospital, Pakistan, during May 2022.
- Data collected on knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding melanoma and SSE, analyzed using Google Forms and SPSS.
- Descriptive analysis included frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations.
Main Results
- 81% of the surveyed population were unaware of melanoma, and 70% never performed SSE.
- Despite 57% having moles, 90% expressed no concern, and 85% had not sought medical advice.
- While 57% recognized SSE benefits for early detection and 62% for survival, only 52% understood melanoma's severity.
Conclusions
- A significant gap exists in public awareness regarding melanoma risks and the importance of skin self-examination (SSE).
- Public health initiatives are crucial to educate individuals on melanoma, SSE benefits, and when to seek medical attention.
- Further research is needed to identify and address barriers to melanoma awareness and early detection.
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