A qualitative study of older people's perceptions of skin cancer

Abstract

Objective The aim of the current study was to explore the health beliefs of older people in relation to skin cancer. Design This was a qualitative study, based on semi-structured interviews. Setting Interviews were carried out at a social centre, run by Age Concern, for people aged over 55. Methods Ten males and ten females, aged between 58 and 87, were interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule. Results A qualitative content analysis of the interviews revealed a certain degree of confusion regarding the causes and appearance of skin cancer, and whilst early detection was perceived as 'a good thing' there was evidence of a lack of motivation, salience, knowledge of how to carry out skin self-examination, and a low sense of personal susceptibility. Conclusions It is suggested that health education for skin cancer needs to be targeted specifically at older people, in a way which encourages them to relate to it, in contrast to current health education which emphasises primary prevention and thus focuses on, and is designed to attract the attention of younger people.