Skin Cancer Awareness and Knowledge About Sun Protection Practices in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: Patient Survey Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND Adequate sun protection practices in chronically immunosuppressed patients can minimize the burden of the most common type of skin cancer in this population. In addition, early recognition of skin cancer by patients can lead to decreased morbidity, and possibly mortality from the disease. Nevertheless, there are significant gaps in the knowledge of sun protection measures and early recognition of skin cancer. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to determine the risk factors of solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) for developing skin cancer and their sun exposure education and behavior post-transplantation. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study evaluates the responses of 107 SOTRs on their outlooks and beliefs of sunscreen usage, skin cancer, and sun exposure knowledge. RESULTS Our study identified several significant risk factors for the development of actinic keratosis or keratinocyte carcinoma in SOTRs including history of sunburn before age 18, blue eyes, history of tanning bed use, performing monthly skin exams, ability to identify precancerous skin lesions, and history of previous skin examinations. CONCLUSION A patient-centered approach needs to be used to properly educate patients on effective ways to reduce excessive sun exposure. Regular skin examinations, and patients continued education are necessary components in reducing the burden of skin cancer in SOTRs.