title: Skin cancer education for massage therapists: a novel approach to the early detection of suspicious lesions.
abstract: Studies indicate that with training, nonmedical health professionals may be able to successfully recognize lesions suspicious for skin cancer and thereby assist with early detection of suspicious lesions. We present the results of a study aimed at assessing the efficacy of a 4-h continuing education program designed to educate massage therapists about skin cancer detection and prevention. Prior to and after the administration of the course, surveys were administered to attendees to gauge their ability to identify skin cancer and their comfort level with counseling clients with suspicious lesions. Our study suggests that while many massage therapists are educated on skin cancer and have experience referring patients for suspicious lesions, a 4-h educational session may not be sufficient to improve sensitivity of detection.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
authors.forename: Shannon C
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Trotter
authors.forename: Qiong
authors.initials: Q
authors.lastname: Louie-Gao
authors.forename: Meghan T
authors.initials: MT
authors.lastname: Hession
authors.forename: Deborah
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Cummins
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002280:Basal Cell Carcinoma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards*; D003695:Delivery of Health Care; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008405:Massage; D008875:Middle Aged; D026761:Physical Therapy Specialty; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult