Prevention of Cancer - Melanoma Development and Its Diagnosis Among Silesian Voivodeship Residents - Preliminary Results

Background: Melanoma is a malignant tumor with the highest growth rate in the incidence and is the leading cause of death due to skin cancers. In Poland, approximately 1500 cases of melanoma are detected annually in advanced or metastatic stages. Intensive preventive measures can contribute to its early-stage diagnosis, consequently reducing the number of fatalities. The aim of the study was to assess the occurrence of melanoma risk factors among the residents of Silesia region and their knowledge about the diagnosis and prevention of this cancer. Methods: The study was conducted among the residents of the Silesian voivodeship. A total of 400 (100%) individuals were examined. Among them were 243 women and 157 men. The participants' ages ranged from 16 to 84 years (mean age = 34.38±18.39). An original questionnaire was used in the study, and its completion was anonymous and voluntary. The questions included in it pertained to the discussed topic as well as general data, such as age, gender, place of residence, and occupation. Results: The participants were burdened with melanoma development risk factors such as fair skin complexion (236; 58.71%), having more than 50 pigmented lesions (159; 39.55%), sunburns (106; 26.37%), family history of melanoma (60; 14.93%), and tanning salon use (32; 7.96%). Over 40% (173; 43.03%) of the participants had never examined their pigmented lesions. A staggering 80% (322; 80.1%) of the respondents had never undergone dermatoscopic examination, and over 50% (214; 53.23%) did not know what this examination entailed. Just under 16% (63; 15.67%) of the participants stated that their family doctor had examined their pigmented lesions, and almost 90% (140; 88.05%) of those with numerous pigmented lesions had never been referred to a dermatologist for dermatoscopy. Conclusions: The surveyed residents of the Silesian Voivodeship were burdened with numerous risk factors for melanoma development, with the most common being fair skin complexion, having more than 50 pigmented lesions, and sunburns. The knowledge of the participants regarding the diagnosis and prevention of melanoma development was insufficient, thus highlighting the necessity for conducting systematic educational initiatives in the mentioned field. These initiatives should ultimately lead to the preservation of health and life, as well as the maintenance of its high quality. Trial registration Not applicable.