A systematic approach to surveillance pre-cancerous vulval conditions such as vulval intraepithelial neoplasia [VIN], and vulval dermatoses such as lichen sclerosis [LS]. Patients with gynaecological cancers have significant unmet information needs, however the extent of the problem in this population is unknown. The clinical team at a Western Australian tertiary centre providing surveillance for these conditions recognised a need to reflect on clinic activity and assess patients’ perspectives as an opportunity to plan future initiatives. As such, this project aimed to audit the patient population attending a vulvoscopy clinic at a Western Australian tertiary centre and assess patients’ knowledge and information needs.
Method:A retrospective audit was undertaken to examine demographic data of 307 patients attending the vulval clinic. In addition, a cross-sectional survey was used to collect quantitative and qualitative data from 61 clinic attendees between January and March 2024. Data underwent descriptive statistical and content analysis. Results: In self-assessing understanding of their condition, most respondents (n=23; 48%) provided a description of symptoms, for example “itchy, painful”. Most survey respondents (n=49; 84%) reported confidence in vulva care, however, almost half (n=27, 46%) self-reported low knowledge about their condition.
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 amongst patients to attend support group or education sessions. Most respondents (n=50; 85%) indicated they would use an information pack including a variety of resource formats. Conclusion: This investigation audited the population of people accessing vulvar cancer surveillance and benchmarked their information needs. Knowledge and confidence results suggest patients know how to effect vulva care; however, they may not understand why. Results will assist in developing future strategies to provide support and education on the prevention of progression to cancer.