Exploring Melanoma Awareness in the Australian Adult Population: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Background Given Australia's high UV exposure and sun-seeking habits, public awareness is critical for early melanoma diagnosis. This study aims to assess melanoma awareness in Australian adults.

Methods An adapted Melanoma Cancer Awareness Measure (M-CAM) survey with both prompted and unprompted questions was used to assess knowledge of melanoma signs and symptoms, targeting adults over 18 years, excluding healthcare professionals.

Results Among 390 participants, the mean number of correctly identified melanoma signs and symptoms was 3.5 out of 17 (unprompted) and 11 out of 14 (prompted). For melanoma risk factors, participants recalled an average of 3.1 items out of 21 (unprompted), and 14 out of 20 items when prompted. The most commonly identified symptoms (unprompted) were changes in the colour (72%), size (41%) and shape (34%) of an existing mole. Sun exposure was the most recognised melanoma risk factor (89%) in unprompted recall, followed by family history of melanoma (64%) and fair skin colour (47%).

Conclusion In this Australian sample, unprompted awareness was low, even among those with a melanoma history. Targeted efforts to identify sub-groups with low awareness, alongside education highlighting less common signs, may enhance early detection and improve melanoma outcomes.