Aims
A systematic approach to surveillance of pre-cancerous vulval conditions such as vulval intraepithelial neoplasia [VIN], and vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia [VAIN] and vulval dermatoses such as lichen sclerosis [LS] is recommended best practice care in the early detection of vulval cancer. Patients with gynaecological cancers have significant unmet information needs, however the extent of the problem in this population is unknown. This project aimed to audit the patient population attending a vulvoscopy clinic at a Western Australian tertiary centre and assess knowledge and information needs.
Methods
A retrospective audit examined demographic data of 307 patients attending the vulval clinic for surveillance. A cross-sectional survey collected quantitative and qualitative data from 61 clinic attendees between January and March 2024. Participation exceeded the expected number of 50. Data underwent descriptive statistical and content analysis.
Results
Most audited patients attended with VIN, VAIN or LS conditions (n=212; 69%). Patients age ranged from 17 to 101 years. Most (62%; n=189) were born in Oceania and 4 (1%) were Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
In self-assessing understanding of their condition, most respondents (n=23; 48%) provided a description of symptoms. Most (n=49; 84%) were confident in vulva care, however, almost half (n=27, 46%) self-reported low knowledge.
Most respondents (n=51; 85%) were unaware of the available consumer resource centre. Face-to-face appointments with a health professional was the preferred way to receive education (n=48; 79%). There was interest in patients attending support group or education sessions. Most (n=50; 85%) indicated they would use an information pack including a variety of resource formats.
Conclusions
Knowledge and confidence results suggest patients know how to effect vulva care; however, they may not understand why. The investigation benchmarked information needs for this population and results will assist in developing strategies to provide support and education on the prevention of progression to cancer.