BI24 Enhancing skin cancer awareness in organ transplant recipients: a national multicentre audit

Abstract

Organ transplant recipients (OTRs) are at markedly increased risk of skin cancer due to chronic immunosuppression, with tumours often demonstrating aggressive behaviour and increased morbidity and mortality. Patient education regarding risk factors, early detection and preventative strategies is therefore essential, yet provision remains inconsistent. This national multicentre audit evaluated baseline knowledge and postintervention improvements in understanding of skin cancer risk, detection and risk-­reduction practices among OTRs. Patients were voluntarily recruited from two national transplant centres (site A and site B) via posters displayed in inpatient wards and outpatient dermatology and transplant clinics. Two closed-loop audit cycles utilized questionnaires assessing knowledge before and after introduction of an educational poster, displayed clinically and distributed online. Overall, 158 responses were obtained (site A, n = 47; site B, n = 111). Participants were aged 21–82 years and included renal, pancreas, heart and lung transplant recipients, with transplant dates ranging from < 1 year to 40 years previously. At baseline, prior skin cancer education had been received by 66% of respondents at site A and 78% at site B. Awareness of increased skin cancer risk improved postintervention at both sites (site A from 89% to 96%, site B from 95% to 100%). Confidence in sun protection measures increased substantially (site A from 68% to 89%, site B from 79% to 96%). Knowledge of recommended monthly skin self-examination improved (site A from 28% to 77%, site B from 49% to 81%), alongside confidence performing skin checks (site A from 19% to 79%, site B from 57% to 86%). At site A, awareness increased regarding the need to seek general practitioner review for suspected skin cancer requiring urgent onward referral (47% to 92%), as well as recommendations regarding vitamin D supplementation (57% to 94%). This audit demonstrates that targeted educational interventions can significantly improve awareness, confidence and preventative behaviours in OTRs, supporting wider implementation across transplant centres.