Public Cognizance Concerning Skin Cancer in the Qassim Region of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background Skin cancer is a growing public health concern in Saudi Arabia, with ultraviolet (UV) radiation recognized as the primary modifiable risk factor. Public awareness and preventive behaviours are essential for early detection. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and risk‑related characteristics concerning skin cancer among adults in the Qassim region. Methods A descriptive cross‑sectional study was conducted among adults (≥18 years) residing in Qassim. Data were collected over three months using a validated, self‑administered online questionnaire distributed via social media platforms. The survey assessed demographics, phenotypic risk factors, knowledge, and attitudes. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), employing descriptive statistics and chi‑square tests to examine associations between sociodemographic variables and knowledge categories. Results A total of 3,420 participants were included; 60.5% were female participants and 94.4% were younger than 50 years. Most respondents (58.5%) exhibited darker phenotypic traits, and 69.8% reported having fewer than five moles. Overall, 74.9% demonstrated good knowledge of skin cancer, and 94.1% expressed positive attitudes towards prevention. Educational level showed a statistically significant association with knowledge status (χ² = 34.723, p < 0.001), indicating higher knowledge among participants with university or postgraduate education. Age was also significantly associated with awareness (p < 0.001). Conclusion Participants demonstrated generally good knowledge and positive attitudes towards skin cancer prevention despite belonging to a predominantly lower‑risk demographic. However, substantial gaps persisted regarding hereditary risk, mucosal involvement, and recognition of chronic non‑healing wounds. Targeted educational interventions, particularly for individuals with lower educational attainment, are recommended to strengthen early detection practices and promote comprehensive sun‑protective behaviours.