Health Literacy: Skin Cancer in Central Algarve

Abstract

Background: Health literacy is part of the national health plan’s broad strategic guidelines. Knowledge on cancer is an important empowerment tool for the population. In the Algarve, a region with a high touristic tradition, mainly for its beaches and the inherent solar exposure, along with agricultural activity, fishing and shellfish harvesting, makes skin cancer a topic of great. Thus, we have developed a community intervention focused on these issues.

Objectives: To increase the health literacy of Central Algarve’s population, related to skin cancer. Informing about risk factors as well as protective ones. Highlighting protective attitudes and early detection methods.

Methods: Community sessions, with a total of 36 participants, were completed. An initial presentation was meant to be short, simple, and accessible. The discussion, which followed, allowed for clarifications, discussion and sharing of personal experiences. Questionnaires were applied including population characterization details, satisfaction levels, and a comparison of knowledge prior and post intervention.

Conclusions: The participants expressed a high level of satisfaction, above our expectations, about the intervention in general, the contents and the format used, in addition to the clarifications and sharing times.