362 Recommendations from cross-sectional, Chinese-language survey of knowledge and prevention of skin cancer among chinese populations internationally

Abstract

Although there is evidence that skin cancer rates are increasing among Chinese populations, sociobehavioral understanding of perceptions and behaviors among the demographic globally relating to skin cancer risks and protection are poorly understood. We report the current knowledge and beliefs of Chinese populations in North America and Asia regarding skin cancer and propose recommendations for closing the gap. Participants recruited via social media answered a 74-question, internet-based survey in Chinese. Comparisons with chi-squared and Fisher’s exact tests were made between responses by Chinese participants in Asia versus in North America and by those with modified Fitzpatrick scores ≤ 14 versus ≥ 15. Of the 113 completed responses (participation rate of 65.7%), 84.1% were Han Chinese, 96.9% were born in China, and 71.4% resided in China. Few but more North American Chinese than Chinese Asians received annual skin checks (4.2% vs 0%, p=0.0086) and believe that their clinician provided adequate sun safety education (43.3% vs 23.1%, p=0.0441). Participants with higher Fitzpatrick scores less frequently received sun safety education from a clinician (11.8% vs 36.1%, p=0.0154). More participants with lower Fitzpatrick scores use sunscreen (67.2% vs 47.1%, p=0.0546), but alternative sun protection usage rates are similar across groups. In conclusion, cultural differences and Fitzpatrick scores can affect knowledge and practices with respect to sun protection and skin cancer among Asian and North American Chinese communities. Through a collective and adaptive effort across all levels of healthcare, knowledge and practices with respect to sun protection and skin cancer can be improved to reduce morbidity and mortality among Chinese populations globally.