Skin Cancer Knowledge and Preventive Behaviors among Patients with a Recent History of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Aims: To evaluate skin cancer knowledge and preventive behaviors of patients recently treated for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and to examine the factors associated with the adoption of preventive behaviors. Methods: Telephone survey on 315 SCC patients treated at a large dermatological hospital in Italy, evaluating skin cancer knowledge, sun protection and skin examination practices as well as medical recommendations received after SCC removal. Results: Skin cancer knowledge was fair/low for 48.9% of the participants. Doctors were the main source of skin cancer information for 24.4% of the patients. Of the patients assessed ≧12 months after SCC removal, 32.7% reported a total skin examination after removal. Of the participants, 41.6% never/rarely used sunscreens. In a multivariate analysis, the likelihood of having complete skin examinations was associated with a doctor’s advice to have an examination (odds ratio, OR = 2.29; 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.2–4.4), a higher knowledge level (OR = 2.05; 95% CI = 1.1–3.8) and past skin examinations (OR = 3.62; 95% CI = 1.9–7.0). Doctor’s recommendations increased the likelihood of adopting preventive behaviors. Conclusions: We found substantial knowledge gaps and limited adoption of skin cancer prevention, highlighting the need for interventions promoting knowledge and preventive behaviors, particularly among higher-risk patients.