Health behaviour models: a framework for studying adherence in children with atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common problem of childhood causing considerable distress. Effective topical treatments exist, yet poor adherence often results in poor outcomes. A framework is needed to better understand adherence behaviour. To provide a basis for this framework, we reviewed established models used to describe health behaviour. Structural elements of these models informed the development of an adherence model for AD that can be used to complement empirical AD treatment trials. Health behaviour models provide a means to describe factors that affect adherence and that can mediate the effects of different adherence interventions. Models of adherence behaviour are important for promoting better treatment outcomes for children with AD and their families. These models provide a means to identify new targets to improve adherence and a guide for refining adherence interventions.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/79208/1/j.1365-2230.2009.03741.x.pd

Evidence-Based Management of Hand Eczema

Hand eczema is a common skin disease with a wide variation in morphology and a complex etiology based on endogenous and exogenous factors.The diagnosis of hand eczema is based on patient history, exposure assessment, physical examination, and the results of patch testing. Management of hand eczema starts with education of the patient on the etiology of the disease, and the needed changes in behavior regarding skin care and preventive measures, and avoidance of relevant exposure factors. In many cases, medical treatment is needed for successful management of the disease; use of medication can only be successful with proper education and avoidance of relevant exposure

Skin Cancer Warnings and the Need for New Preventive Campaigns: A Pilot Study

Although skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, it is the most common cancer in the world and its incidence is increasing. Nearly 5 million people in the U.S. are treated each year for skin cancer at an estimated annual cost of $8.1 billion. Melanoma is the most deadly skin cancer, responsible for more than 9,000 deaths each year. Given the treatment costs, potential deadly consequences, and well-known causal relationship between ultraviolet light and skin cancer, it is unclear why many people ignore warnings and do not protect themselves from the sun

Veterans Speak Up: Current Warnings on Skin Cancer Miss the Target, Suggestions for Improvement

Background: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world and its incidence is increasing. Veterans may have increased exposure to risk factors, but data are lacking in terms of their perceptions of skin cancer and the types of prevention strategies that might resonate with this population. Objective: This study examines veterans’ awareness of the risk factors for skin cancer and importance of sun protection and seeks to identify effective communication and educational strategies for this at-risk population. Methods: A telephone survey was conducted of 100 veterans, who have been diagnosed with skin cancer at the Audie Murphy Veteran’s Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. Results: The majority of respondents’ said that their skin cancer resulted from sun exposure and that the best way to prevent skin cancer was to use sunscreen. However, when asked if they believed they were at risk for being diagnosed with skin cancer, most veterans responded that they believed they were at little risk. In response to why veterans did not heed warnings about skin cancer, many replied that they believed skin cancer would not happen to them. A statistically significant increase in usage of sunscreen and sun protectant garments occurred after being diagnosed with skin cancer and education by their physicians. Doctors talking to patients was rated the most effective communication method to inform them about the risks of skin cancer, followed by education during basic training. Limitations: Recall bias is the major limitation with a retrospective survey design. Discussion: Our results reveal poor patient awareness of the risks of skin cancer and the benefits of sun protection before their diagnosis. The veterans agreed that the physician–patient interaction is the best and most effective means of communication, which is evident by the significant increase in sun protection and sunscreen usage after their diagnosis. Our survey revealed that other effective communication strategies included education in basic training, the use of a veteran spokes model with skin cancer, and the use of images to emphasize the severity of the disease