Optimistically biased perception of one's own skin cancer risk: Representative nationwide findings

Diehl K, Goerig T, Osenbruegge N, Schilling L, Greinert R, Schneider S (2019)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2019

Journal

Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft Wiley-Blackwell

Book Volume: 17

Pages Range: 786-798

Journal Issue: 8

DOI: 10.1111/ddg.13897

Abstract

Background: Previous research has shown that individuals tend to have unrealistic comparative optimism (UCO) for different diseases and health outcomes. Our aim was to analyze UCO in relation to skin cancer for the first time in a representative nationwide sample. The results will be important for planning future prevention. Methods: The National Cancer Aid Monitoring on Sunbed Use (NCAM, wave 3) is a representative nationwide German survey (n = 3,000, 14–45 years). We assessed UCO in relation to skin cancer and analyzed its association with sociodemographics, tanning and health-related risk behaviors, skin cancer risk, and skin cancer risk awareness. Results: Four out of ten (43.3 %) respondents believed themselves to have a lower risk of developing skin cancer than other people of the same age and sex. Younger individuals were more likely to be optimistic. Individuals with an increased risk of skin cancer were more likely to perceive this higher risk. Conclusion: While it is realistic for those who actually have a higher risk of skin cancer to perceive it that way, the findings for the general population (and specifically for younger individuals) are concerning. It seems important to explain to people that their perception of their own risk of skin cancer is unrealistic, as this may affect their individual screening and prevention behavior.

Authors with CRIS profile

Katharina Diehl
Tatiana Görig

Involved external institutions

Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg DE Germany (DE) Elbe Kliniken Stade-Buxtehude DE Germany (DE)

How to cite

APA:

Diehl, K., Goerig, T., Osenbruegge, N., Schilling, L., Greinert, R., & Schneider, S. (2019). Optimistically biased perception of one's own skin cancer risk: Representative nationwide findings. Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, 17(8), 786-798. https://doi.org/10.1111/ddg.13897

MLA:

Diehl, Katharina, et al. "Optimistically biased perception of one's own skin cancer risk: Representative nationwide findings." Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft 17.8 (2019): 786-798.

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