Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the population's knowledge, attitudes and practices about skin neoplasms as well as the relevance of an extension project in the area of Dermatology. Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study with the participation of 196 patients seen at a university clinic located in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. The research analyzes the socio-demographic characteristics of the volunteers and subsequently investigates the knowledge of those involved about skin cancer and other aspects related to the neoplasia in question through a self-administered questionnaire. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: Despite the fact that Brazil is considered a country with a high solar incidence, the skin care of the population is not sufficient in the vast majority. At higher educational levels, we can observe the adoption of different, and more than one, protective measures. It is noticeable that the campaign and its dissemination is not reaching an adequate population, regardless of the level of education. Conclusion: The results of the study show that the campaign against skin cancer carried out annually by the SBD is not known by the population and awareness of this public is fundamental, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis in improving the prognosis.