Increasing skin self-examination after melanoma: an intervention using text and tablet delivery

• Main Author: Marie Johnston (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Frontiers Media S.A., 2015-11-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 2296-2565; 10.3389/conf.FPUBH.2016.01.00021
• Keywords: Melanoma; Self-Examination; intervention; Digital; Behaviour Change; Feasibility study; Public aspects of medicine; RA1-1270
• Source: Frontiers in Public Health, Vol 4 (2015)

Background: Following surgery for melanoma, there is a high risk of recurrence and it is recommended that patients perform regular total skin self-examination (TSSE) to complement physician follow-up. However practice is sub-optimal and reported barriers to TSSE include lack of training, waning motivation and the time required. The Achieving Self-directed Integrated Cancer Aftercare (ASICA) intervention was developed based on behaviour change theory [Information-Motivation-Behavioural skills model (IMB) and Control Theory]. Aims: This study assessed acceptability and feasibility of ASICA. Methods: The intervention involves text message prompts from the nurse-lead (N), information and TSSE demonstration by tablet, monitoring of TSSE, photographing any skin changes and sending to N via tablet, feedback and follow-up by N. Interviews were conducted with 21 people previously treated for cutaneous melanoma. The intervention was piloted with 20 people treated for melanoma. Results: Interviewees were positive about the use of technology to remind and instruct on TSSE, conducting it in their homes and getting feedback quickly. Pilot participants were strongly positive; 15 adhered well to the intervention, 4 intermittently and one withdrew. Symptoms were reported by seven and two had further surgery, one with a recurrent melanoma. Several practical issues were identified. Participants' intention and self-efficacy increased. Conclusions: The ASICA intervention was acceptable to most patients and feasible following small technical adjustments. It is now proposed to evaluate the intervention in a randomised controlled trial.