What does the general population know about nonmelanoma skin cancer? Representative cross-sectional data from Germany

Abstract

Aim Nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common form of cancer in white-skinned populations. However, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the general population’s knowledge about NMSC. Subjects and methods As part of wave 8 of the German National Cancer Aid Monitoring (NCAM), 4000 participants aged 16–65 years (49.3% female) were interviewed by telephone about NMSC. Questions included awareness of (colloquial) terms for NMSC, its signs, consequences, risk factors, prevalence, and severity. Results Colloquial terms for skin cancer were heard of more often than medical terms (60.9–82.1% vs. 22.6–51.5%). In our sample, there was little familiarity with signs (15.8–36.4%), possible consequences (14.7–56.3%), prevalence (27.4%), and severity (29.0%) of NMSC. Most participants knew about UV-related risk factors for NMSC (73.0–78.7%). Women, those with higher education levels, full-time employment, lighter skin type, presence of more than 40 nevi, frequent childhood sunburns, or frequent intentional tanners achieved a higher knowledge score. Concern about NMSC was associated with more NMSC knowledge. Conclusion We found knowledge gaps regarding signs, consequences, and prevalence of NMSC. To ensure early recognition and treatment, the general population should be further educated, specifically targeting male, less educated, and unemployed individuals.