Is targeted early detection for melanoma feasible? Self assessments of risk and attitudes to screening

Objectives To study the feasibility of developing targeted screening for those at high risk of melanoma by examining how attitudes relate to (a) acceptance of an invitation for a free skin check and (b) self assessed and clinically assessed risk factors for developing cutaneous melanoma. Design A population based cross sectional survey. Setting A general practice with a broad mix of socioeconomic groups in one district health authority. Subjects A total of 1600 subjects aged 25–69 years stratified using the social deprivation score of wards were randomly selected from a population of 8000; 77% (1227) returned the questionnaire and 56% (896) attended for screening. Main outcome measures Questionnaire measures of confidence in own ability to self assess risk factors for melanoma, attitudes to seeking medical help for skin abnormalities, and self assessment of relative risk of developing melanoma. Results Clinic attenders were less confident in their ability to self assess risk factors (p