Assessing Patient Awareness of Sun Exposure and Eyelid Cancer

Background and objective Eyelid cancers are associated with significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. The eyelids are highly sun-exposed, yet awareness of eyelid cancer risk and sun protection practices remains insufficiently studied. This study aimed to evaluate patient awareness regarding eyelid cancer and associated preventive behaviors across different demographic groups. Methods A cross-sectional survey study was conducted at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Health between May and August 2023. Ophthalmology clinic patients were given an anonymous 22-question survey upon their arrival. Demographics, awareness of sun exposure and eyelid cancer, and preventive practices were analyzed using the Chi-square tests of independence. Results A total of 484 participants completed the survey. While 191 of 197 White respondents (96.9%) recognized sun exposure as a risk factor for skin cancer, only 153 of 213 Black respondents (71.8%) did so (p < 0.0001). Overall, 214 of 484 participants (44.2%) were unaware that the eyelids can be affected by cancer. Only 70 of 484 respondents (14.8%) reported using facial sunscreen daily, and 115 of 484 (24.4%) reported applying sunscreen to the eyelids. Individuals with a higher level of education reported greater use of sun exposure preventative measures. Conclusions Awareness of eyelid cancer and adherence to sun protection practices remain suboptimal, particularly among Black patients, men, older adults, and those with lower levels of education. These findings highlight the need for targeted public health initiatives and physician counseling to improve prevention and reduce the risk of eyelid cancer.