Survey on the Knowledge, Attitudes, Primary Prevention Practices and Screening of Skin Cancers in Albinos in Burkina Faso

Abstract

The objective is to s tudy the knowledge that albinos have on skin cancers, and their attitudes in terms of primary prevention and the screening practices for skin cancers in Burkina Faso. Methods: This is a cross-sectional and descriptive KAP study conducted from May 18 th to July 7 th 2015. It involved albinos aged at least 12 years. Their general knowledge, prevention attitudes and screening practices were considered. Results: All the responding albinos had already heard about skin cancers. Their main source of information was health workers (65.6%). They were showing at least two risk factors (99.2%) but only 68.3% affirmed having already undergone screening for skin cancer. Ignorance of the existence of screening was the main obstacle to it (16/26). The prevention means used was sun avoidance, the use of cream and protection clothing respectively in 84%, 41.5% and 51.2%. The skin lesions found were hyperpigmented macules (77.8%) then actinic keratosis (40.7%) and finally cheilitis (35.8%). We detected 4 cases of skin cancers confirmed by biopsy. Conclusion: Risk factors are frequent. Participation to screening is still insignificant. A lot is still to be done to extend the protec tion means. A good awareness-raising campaign and the accessibility to protection means remain for all, the best defense in the fight against skin cancers in albinos.