Effects of workplace skin cancer screenings on preventive and risk behaviour

Abstract

Abstract Aim Skin cancer is the most prevalent cancer in western countries and is associated with a high burden of disease. Skin cancer screenings can help detect cancer at an early stage and thus allow for better treatment. We aimed to analyse the impact of workplace skin cancer screenings on prevention behaviour and potential spillover effects on non-participants. Subject and methods Participants of workplace skin cancer screenings completed questionnaires at 0, 3 and 12 months on knowledge about and attitudes toward skin cancer and prevention behaviours. Effects over time were compared using McNemar tests. For additional analyses we performed logistic regression analyses. Results Of the 998 participants (44.7% women, mean age 43.3 years), 26.7% had never attended a skin cancer screening. The proportion of participants seeking shade for UV protection and the number of visits to dermatologists and general practitioners increased significantly in the year following workplace screening (p < 0.05). Two thirds (66.4%) recommended skin cancer screenings to others and at least 39.2% of them were sure that this recommendation was followed. Characteristics associated with participants’ recommendation for screening included female gender (odds ratio: 1.62), older age (odds ratio: 1.02), and lower education (odds ratio: 1.40). Conclusion Workplace screenings can complement routine skin cancer screenings. They inform participants about the existence and benefits of screenings and may have spillover effects for peers. They can also serve as another source of information on prevention and risk behaviours.