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Why is skin cancer a significant concern in Australia?

Australia has a strong outdoor culture, with many people engaging in various outdoor activities. This high level of outdoor exposure increases the risk of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure, leading to a higher incidence of skin cancer, including malignant melanoma (MM). Over the past 40 years, skin cancer rates have risen significantly in Australia, with two out of three Australians expected to develop some form of skin cancer by age 70.

What is malignant melanoma (MM)?

Malignant melanoma (MM) is a serious type of skin cancer that develops in the cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color. If not detected early, it can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening.

How is skin cancer currently detected in Australia?

In Australia, regular skin cancer examinations are generally recommended only for individuals at high risk. Asymptomatic or low-risk individuals are not typically advised to undergo routine skin checks. Interestingly, the Melanoma Institute Australia reports that about half of patients identify their own MMs, though this claim is based on limited data.

What was the aim of the recent study on skin cancer self-detection?

The study aimed to determine the percentage of patients who could self-identify MMs as lesions of concern when they presented for a skin cancer examination.

How was the study conducted?

The study used a multi-site, cross-sectional design that included a descriptive survey and total body skin cancer screening by a doctor using artificial intelligence. A total of 260 participants with suspect MM lesions were biopsied.

What were the key findings of the study?

The study found that:

• Out of 260 biopsied lesions, 83 (31.9%) were confirmed as melanomas.
• Only a small percentage (21.7%) of participants correctly identified their MM as a lesion of concern.
• MMs were commonly located on the back (44.4%), shoulder (11.1%), and upper leg (11.1%).
• Males were more likely than females to identify a lesion as an MM (61.1% vs. 38.9%).
• Participants were more likely to correctly identify invasive MMs compared to in situ MMs (27.3% vs. 21.3%).

What conclusions were drawn from the study?

The study concluded that most participants were unable to self-identify MMs, leading to potential delays in treatment. The inability of laypersons to detect these cancerous lesions underscores the need for revisiting current melanoma screening practices in Australia. Additionally, the study suggests enhancing prevention campaigns to include more information on the appearance of MMs and primary risk factors.

What are the implications of this study for public health in Australia?

This study highlights the importance of improving melanoma screening practices and public education on skin cancer detection. Early detection is crucial for better outcomes and reducing the high mortality and treatment costs associated with invasive MMs. Public health campaigns should focus on educating people about the signs of skin cancer and encouraging regular skin checks, even for those not deemed high-risk.

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