We are testing how phone apps could be used to find skin cancer

We want to know if people would use a Smartphone App to keep an eye on changes to their skin. Apps like ‘SkinVision’ are designed to identify early signs of skin cancer. It could help people decide when they need to get advice from their doctor about moles or changes to their skin. To find out if and when people would use the SkinVision App we have been asking different groups of people what they think.

Why are we doing this?

Skin cancer is one of the UK’s most common cancers but is also very treatable if found early.

The number of people seeking appointments about a skin concern is currently growing significantly across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

The majority (87% of people seen face to face) are reassured that it is nothing to worry about. But with a limited number of skin cancer specialists, we need to look at a different way of making sure those who are more likely to have skin cancer are seen quickly.

SkinVision can help people decide if and when to seek advice. We therefore want to find out what people think about using this App as an alternative to seeing a doctor about changes to their skin.

What is SkinVision?

SkinVision is a regulated medical app that helps monitor skin health. As a smartphone app, it can help people to better self-examine their skin over time.

It uses AI technology with the expertise of skin health professionals and dermatologists to alert the user to any worrying skin changes. It also gives advice about what to do next.

To learn more visit the SkinVision website

Who have we talked to?

We have heard from a wide range of people living in Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and Dorset about what they think of SkinVision. We did this through a survey, focus groups and interviews.

We have spoken to people:

• living with a high risk of skin cancer
• who live alone or may be supported by a care-giver
• who live with disabilities
• who are neurodivergent
• who do and don’t have access to a Smartphone or device
• who look after someone else (a carer)

People are currently trialling the app to see how easy it is to use, and we will invite them to give us feedback about this.

What will we do with the findings?

We will use the findings to explore the use of SkinVision in the future. The findings will also help us think about how we can overcome any barriers some people may have using this app. We will think carefully about what we need to do for people who may find the app more challenging to use.