Cognitive training with photographs as a new concept in an education campaign for self‐detection of melanoma: a pilot study in the community

Background  Cognitive education using only photographs has been shown to be more effective than the ABCD algorithm to improve melanoma recognition in the general population. Objective  The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a campaign based on cognitive education by photographs instead of the usual ABCD algorithm. Methods  Brochures including a panel of photographs of melanoma and moles were mailed, supported by a media campaign and followed by a telephone survey of a representative sample of the district population. Results  Among the 855 people interviewed, 38% recalled the campaign and 13% had actually read the brochures. Among the 13%, 99% found them useful, 52% reassuring and 40% anxiety provoking, while 92% agreed that using images of skin cancer was the best way to recognize melanoma. Sixty-four percent declared that this campaign had prompted them to examine their own moles, 39% were prompted to check moles of family members, and only 11% would immediately visit a doctor. Conclusion  This pilot study shows that a melanoma campaign based exclusively on images is well accepted in the community, and is associated with a favourable impact on self-surveillance, while limiting overflow of unjustified consultations. We recommend this innovative concept be applied to large scale campaigns.