MelaTools-skin self-monitoring trial

The trial was an exploratory randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing use of a skin self-monitoring app with standard information among patients at above population risk of melanoma.

Melanoma is among the most lethal skin cancers; it has become the fifth most common cancer in the United Kingdom, and incidence rates are rising. Population approaches to reducing incidence have focused on mass media campaigns to promote earlier presentation and potentially improve melanoma outcomes; however, interventions using smartphone applications targeting those with the greatest risk could promote earlier presentation to health care professionals for individuals with new or changing skin lesions.

Our objective was to study the effect of a commercially available skin self-monitoring (SSM) smartphone application among individuals with increased risk of melanoma on their decision to seek help for changing skin lesions.

To do so, we conducted this phase 2 randomized clinical trial in 12 family practices in Eastern England between 2016 and 2017. A total of 238 participants, aged 18 to 75 years and with an increased risk of melanoma, were identified using a real-time melanoma risk assessment tool in family practice waiting rooms. Analysis was intention to treat.

The intervention and control groups received a consultation with standard written advice on sun protection and skin cancer detection. The intervention group had an SSM application loaded on their smartphone and received instructions for use and monthly self-monitoring reminders. Participants were observed for 12 months, and data analysis was conducted from January to August 2018.

Publications
Mills K, Emery JD, Pannebakker M, Lantaff R, Radford M, Hall P, Burrows N, Williams K, Saunders C, Murchie P, Walter FM. Protocol for the MelaTools Skin Self-Monitoring Trial: a phase II randomised controlled trial of an intervention for primary care patients at higher risk of melanoma. BMJ Open. 2017. doi:bmjopen-2017-017934

Walter FM, Pannebakker MM, Barclay ME, Mills K, Saunders CL, Murchie P, Corrie P, Hall P, Burrows N, Emery JD. Effect of a skin self-monitoring smartphone application on time to physician consultation among patients with possible melanoma: a phase 2 randomized clinical trial. JAMA Network Open. 2020. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.0001