A novel educational intervention targeting melanoma risk and prevention knowledge among children with a familial risk for melanoma

Objective

To examine the acceptability of and preliminary effects associated with a novel educational intervention for children at elevated risk for melanoma. The intervention incorporated information on mechanisms through which melanoma preventive behaviors mitigate risk for melanoma and was delivered to parents and children concurrently.

Methods

Twenty-two parents (with a personal history of melanoma or spouse with a history of melanoma) and 33 children (mean age 11.8 years) were asked to complete questionnaires immediately prior to and after an educational session and at a one-month follow-up.

Results

Both parents and children endorsed that the educational materials were acceptable. Knowledge about melanoma risk and preventive and screening behaviors increased significantly. Children’s perceived risk for melanoma increased significantly, while parents’ perceptions of children’s risk started at a higher level and remained constant. There were significant increases in reported engagement in sun protective behaviors.

Conclusion

The educational intervention shows promise in terms of its acceptability and effects on participant knowledge, perceived risk, and engagement in melanoma preventive behaviors.

Practice implication

Children at elevated risk for melanoma and their parents may benefit from receiving educational information on their disease risk and strategies for prevention and screening.