Skin Self-Examination: Partner Comfort and Support During Examinations as Predictors of Self-Efficacy in Patients At Risk for Melanoma Recurrence.

Background: Skin self-examination (SSE) is an effective method for melanoma survivors to detect potential cancerous growths sooner.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine whether the SSE self-efficacy of patients with melanoma and their partners is affected by their partners' comfort and support during skin examinations.

Methods: 100 patient-partner dyads completed a 25-item sociodemographic questionnaire. Fifty-two partners attended an education session with the patient on skin examinations and the early detection of melanoma. All patients attended the education session.

Findings: Having their partners attend the education session, as well as being supportive and comfortable with skin examinations, significantly predicted patients' self-efficacy with SSEs. In addition, male patients were found to be significantly more comfortable with partner-assisted skin examinations and reported feeling more supported by their partner than female patients.