An analysis of acceptance, socioeconomic factors, and outcome of skin cancer screening among the cohort of the Gutenberg Health Study.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVES

Given the increasing incidence of cutaneous neoplasms, the nationwide skin cancer screening program was implemented in Germany in 2008. However, there are few studies evaluating its effectiveness. The aim of this analysis was to assess factors influencing participation and outcomes of skin cancer screening within the cohort of the Gutenberg Health Study (GHS).

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

The GHS is a retrospective cohort study conducted at the University Medical Center Mainz since 2007. Initially, 15,010 participants aged 35-74 years were recruited, with later inclusion of younger and older individuals. Data were collected through interviews on skin cancer screening participation and linked to participant-specific information such as cancer history and occupational background.

RESULTS

In the GHS cohort, the participation rate in skin cancer screening was 62.1% (3,383 out of 5,452). Occupational UV exposure was associated with lower screening participation, whereas a history of cancer correlated with higher participation. Dermatologists were the preferred screening providers and demonstrated higher malignancy detection rates compared to general practitioners (36.7% compared to 20%).

CONCLUSIONS

The participation rate in skin cancer screening within the GHS cohort was substantially higher than national averages. Nevertheless, risk-prone populations with outdoor occupations are currently not adequately reached by the screening program. Improved education and targeted interventions for high-risk groups are needed.