Partner Assistance in Learning and Performing Skin Self-Examination

Partner Assistance in Learning and Performing Skin Self-Examination

This study is a behavioral science study designed to identify aspects of the dyadic relationship that promote Skin Self-Examination (SSE) in patients at high risk of developing melanoma. The patient is randomized to receive the educational intervention either as a solo learner or with the partner.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Personal or family history of melanoma. If a personal history of melanoma, the patient was treated at least 1 month ago
• Evidence of dysplastic nevus syndrome or a large number of moles (Greater than 50)
• Able to see to read a newspaper, can read at an eighth grade level
• Speaks English
• 18 to 70 years old with a spouse or cohabitating partner

Exclusion Criteria:

• Under 18 years of age
• Patient overburden by other co-morbid diseases such as chronic immunosuppression from organ transplantation
• Have insufficient vision to to read a newspaper
• Unable to read English
• Have insufficient cognitive skills to follow instructions provided at an eighth grade language level