Medical Students’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors With Regard to Skin Cancer and Sun-Protective Behaviors

Abstract

Physicians are uniquely positioned to counsel patients regarding sun-protective behaviors. Thus, a medical school curriculum that includes education about the sun's effect on health is needed for the prevention and early recognition of skin cancer in future patients.

Primary prevention of keratinocyte carcinoma among outdoor workers, the general population and medical professionals: a systematic review updated for 2019

“…The above‐mentioned deficits among outdoor workers are not surprising, considering similar findings were even observed among medical professionals. Though medical professionals were found to have slightly better knowledge in comparison to previous studies, they still showed a lack of knowledge and SPB . Thus, the necessary information transmission and elucidation has not yet been fully achieved.…”

“…Most medical professionals were aware of the harmful effects of UVR in relation to skin cancer . Isvy et al .…”

“…Twenty‐eight per cent to 86% of different medical professionals applied sunscreen during sun exposure . Sixty‐one per cent of Turkish nurses reported that when buying sunscreen, the SPF of the sunscreen was their top consideration …”

“…Forty‐nine per cent to 62% of medical professionals wore light‐coloured clothing and fewer than 50% wore long‐sleeved clothes to protect from UVR …”

“…Most medical professionals were aware of the harmful effects of UVR in relation to skin cancer. [48][49][50][51][52] Isvy et al 53 found that more than 75% of medical students from France knew general aspects of sun protection measures. On average, plastic surgeons from UK were able to answer 50% of questions on UVR and KC correctly.…”