Knowledge, perceptions and practices of Chiropractic Interns in the early detection of atypical moles

With more than 1.3 million diagnoses, over 10,000 deaths, and more than $1 billion spent annually for skin cancer treatment in the US, skin cancer represent a serious public health threat. An estimated 5 to 10 percent of the population has atypical moles, with a higher incidence in immunosuppressed adults. Because atypical moles are markers for melanoma and are possible precursor lesions, careful clinical attention is warranted. Melanoma is a common neoplasm and is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Chiropractic physicians and interns are in an optimal position to provide early detection and screening for atypical moles with frequent patient encounters due to the nature of their scope of practice. Chiropractors routinely treat patients with acute or chronic neck and back pain and therefore have an increased opportunity for frequent surveillance of suspicious or atypical moles. In theory, education and early detection should reduce morbidity and mortality associated with melanoma. The purpose of the study is to determine the current knowledge, perceptions and practices of Chiropractic interns in the detection of atypical moles through the use of a survey. Implementation of the survey will occur in February 2009 and the results will be reported in this presentation. Approval of the IRB was granted for this study in February.