Online skin cancer misinformation frequently promotes tanning, vilifies sunscreen, and asserts alternative cures.

Misinformation surrounding diseases and treatments poses a significant global threat, particularly in areas like skin cancer where early detection and prevention are crucial for positive outcomes. Inaccurate online health information can lead to poor patient choices, delayed diagnoses, and ineffective treatments, exacerbating disease progression. Current public health efforts emphasize sun protection and regular screenings, but these are undermined by widespread falsehoods. Understanding the specific nature of online misinformation is essential to develop targeted strategies for countering its detrimental impact on skin cancer prevention and management.

Researchers conducted a qualitative review of online content to assess misinformation related to skin cancer. They performed systematic searches via PubMed and Google, utilizing specific terms such as skin cancer, melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancer, SCC, BCC, combined with misinformation, disinformation, or conspiracy theories. The identified online content was then qualitatively assessed to identify and categorize recurring themes of misinformation.

The qualitative assessment revealed several prevalent themes of misinformation concerning skin cancer. A significant portion of online content asserted the 'dangers' of using sunscreen, often portraying it as an ineffective prophylactic measure or even a direct cause of skin cancer. Conversely, tanning practices and the use of Melanotan (an unlicensed and untested form of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone) were frequently promoted as safe. Misinformation also included claims that the risk of skin cancer is limited exclusively to older individuals or those with fair skin, disregarding broader risk factors. Furthermore, numerous assertions were found regarding alternative 'causes' and unproven 'cures' for skin cancer.

Sunscreen was particularly vilified as being an ineffective prophylactic measure and a cause of skin cancer, highlighting a critical area of public health concern.