Skin cancer on Instagram: implications for adolescents and young adults.

Basch, Corey H.; Hillyer, Grace C.

Given the popularity and reach of Instagram among American adolescents and young adults (AYA), the well-known influence of social media on the behaviors of youth, and the rising rates of melanoma in this age group, this study sought to examine and describe the content of a sample of Instagram posts related to skin cancer. At three different times, a search of Instagram was conducted using #skincancer as the hashtag. Descriptive analyses of Instagram characteristics and content was performed. Overall, content focused on prevention (33.3%), skin cancer treatment (29.3%) and preventive measures such as using sunscreen and protective gear (29.3%). Nearly one-quarter discussed the ABCDEs (Asymmetrical; Borders are irregular; Color is not even; Diameter is large; Evolving) of screening and detection. Instagram postings that covered skin cancer prevention (n = 50, 33.3%) more often discussed the role of sun exposure in the development of skin cancer (28.0% vs. 10.0%, p = 0.005) and use of sunscreen and protective gear (62.0% vs. 13.0%, p < 0.001). The findings of this study indicate that a considerable portion of the Instagram posts included in this study focused on prevention. Thus, indicating that Instagram could be used to promote health, particularly among AYA.

International Journal of Adolescent Medicine & Health, 2022, Vol 34, Issue 3, p1

0334-0139

Academic Journal

10.1515/ijamh-2019-0218