Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices toward Skin Cancer Prevention and Detection among Students of Rawalpindi Medical University: A Cross- Sectional Study

Background: Skin cancer is the fifth most prevalent cancer globally, with approximately 2–3 million non-melanoma and 132,000 melanoma cases diagnosed annually. Despite the rising incidence, awareness of prevention and detection remains low in countries like Pakistan. Medical students, as future healthcare providers, have a significant role in promoting public education on skin cancer, yet data on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) is limited. Objectives: This study evaluates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding skin cancer prevention and detection among medical students at Rawalpindi Medical University (RMU) to identify educational gaps. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at RMU with 260 participants, representing 15% of the student body. Data were collected from students aged 18–27 across all MBBS years using a validated 49-item structured questionnaire regarding Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Skin Cancer Prevention. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and inferential statistics such as the Kruskal-Wallis test and Tukey's post-hoc test to assess differences in knowledge scores between classes. Results: Among the participants, 70.8% were female, and 53.8% were aged 20–23. Most (96.9%) had no family history of skin cancer, and 63.5% claimed to have proper knowledge. The mean knowledge score was 9.89/24, with significant differences between class years (p < 0.001). The third year scored the highest (mean: 12.65), followed by first-year students (mean: 12.56). However, final-year students had the lowest (mean: 7.56) scores. Only 21.5% correctly identified basal cell carcinoma as the most common type. Additionally, 38% of students practiced regular sun protection, and 45.4% reported conducting self-examinations for early detection. Attitudinal analysis revealed that the majority of participants had a positive outlook toward prioritizing skin cancer prevention. Conclusion: This study underscores the need for enhanced educational strategies within the medical curriculum focusing on skin cancer prevention and early detection. Strengthening these areas can better prepare medical students to educate the public effectively and help mitigate the skin cancer burden in Pakistan.