Melanoma self-surveillance is gaining traction as a complement to clinician-led follow-up-but patient confidence remains low. Baseline data from the MEL-SELF trial, collected across Australian dermatology and GP clinics from December 2021 to June 2024, highlights critical gaps.
Of 504 randomized melanoma survivors-mostly stage 0-II-the majority were female (59%) and averaged 56 years old. Nearly half had melanoma in situ; 43% had stage IA disease. Yet only 32% performed monthly or weekly skin self-exams. Twenty percent had not examined their skin at all in the prior year.
Psychological barriers were equally pronounced: 46% reported clinically significant fear of cancer recurrence-strongly linked to younger age, female sex, and higher anxiety, depression, and stress scores.
The trial will next test structured interventions-including mobile dermatoscopes and teledermatology-to determine whether they improve early detection and psychological outcomes.