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Manne S, Wu Y, Buller D, Heckman C, Devine K, Frederick S, Solleder J, Schaefer A, Lu SE. The Effects of a Parent-Focused Social Media Intervention on Child Sun Safety: Pilot and Feasibility Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e48402. [PMID: 38064250 PMCID: PMC10746961 DOI: 10.2196/48402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Middle childhood (ages 8-12 years) is a critical period for forming behavioral habits and reducing the risk for the development of skin cancer later in life. During this time, children develop more autonomy and spend more unsupervised time away from their parents. Professional agencies recommend that all children engage in regular sun protection behaviors and avoid the sun during peak daytime hours. Unfortunately, in middle childhood, child sun protection often declines and UV radiation exposure increases. Effective parenting involves balancing ways to encourage the child's increasing independence while providing practical assistance to ensure sun protection is implemented. OBJECTIVE The goal was to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of Sun Safe Families, a Facebook group intervention for parents of children between 8 and 12 years of age. METHODS The team developed Facebook messages targeting parent knowledge, normative influences, sun safety barriers, planning and goal setting, confidence in implementing sun safety, communication, forming habits, and managing sun safety in risky situations. A total of 92 parents were enrolled, and the groups ran for 6 weeks. Feasibility was measured by enrollment and retention rates. Acceptability was measured by engagement in the Facebook groups. Satisfaction was assessed by a treatment evaluation. At pre- and post-intervention, parents completed measures of child sun protection, UV radiation exposure, sunburn, sun safety knowledge, child risk, barriers, sun protection self-efficacy, planning, sun safe habits, norms for child sun safety, and communication about sun safety. RESULTS Enrollment (64.3%, 92/143) and retention (94.6%, 87/92) were good. On average, participants viewed 67.6% (56.8/84) of posts, "liked" 16.4% (13.77/84) of posts, commented on 14.8% (12.43/84) of posts, and voted on 46% (6.4/14) of polls. Satisfaction was excellent. From pre- to post-intervention, there were significant increases in child sun protection, sun exposure, and sunburn (P<.01; moderate effect sizes), as well as statistically significant increases in planning and self-efficacy (P<.05) and family norms and parent communication (P<.01). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated high survey retention, acceptability, and satisfaction with the intervention. There were promising preliminary effects on child sun protection behaviors and parent sun protection attitudes and communication with their child. Replication with a larger sample size and a comparison condition is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Manne
- Behavioral Sciences, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Yelena Wu
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | | | - Carolyn Heckman
- Behavioral Sciences, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Katie Devine
- Behavioral Sciences, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Sara Frederick
- Behavioral Sciences, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Justin Solleder
- Behavioral Sciences, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Alexis Schaefer
- Behavioral Sciences, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Shou-En Lu
- Rutgers School of Public Health, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
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Lacson JCA, Doyle SH, Del Rio J, Forgas SM, Carvajal R, Gonzalez-Calderon G, Ramírez Feliciano A, Kim Y, Roetzheim RG, Sutton SK, Vadaparampil ST, Soto-Torres B, Kanetsky PA. A randomized clinical trial of precision prevention materials incorporating MC1R genetic risk to improve skin cancer prevention activities among Hispanics. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 2:28-38. [PMID: 35845857 PMCID: PMC9286490 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-21-0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Skin cancer incidence is increasing among Hispanics, who experience worse outcomes than non-Hispanic Whites. Precision prevention incorporating genetic testing for MC1R, a skin cancer susceptibility marker, may improve prevention behavior. Patients and Methods Hispanic participants (n=920) from Tampa, FL and Ponce, PR, were block-randomized within MC1R higher- and average-risk groups to precision prevention or generic prevention arms. We collected baseline information on demographics, family history of cancer, phenotypic characteristics, health literacy, health numeracy, and psychosocial measures. Participants reported weekday and weekend sun exposure (in hours), number of sunburns, frequency of five sun protection behaviors, intentional outdoor and indoor tanning, and skin examinations at baseline, three months, and nine months. Participants also reported these outcomes for their eldest child ≤10 years old. Results Among MC1R higher-risk participants, precision prevention increased sunscreen use (OR=1.74, p=0.03) and receipt of a clinical skin exam (OR=6.51, p=0.0006); and it decreased weekday sun exposure hours (β=-0.94, p=0.005) and improved sun protection behaviors (β=0.93, p=0.02) in their children. There were no significant intervention effects among MC1R average risk participants. The intervention did not elevate participant cancer worry. We also identified moderators of the intervention effect among both average- and higher-risk participants. Conclusions Receipt of MC1R precision prevention materials improved some skin cancer prevention behaviors among higher-risk participants and their children and did not result in reduced prevention activities among average-risk participants. Despite these encouraging findings, levels of sun protection behaviors remained suboptimal among participants, warranting more awareness and prevention campaigns targeted to Hispanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles A. Lacson
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Scarlet H. Doyle
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Jocelyn Del Rio
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Stephanie M. Forgas
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Rodrigo Carvajal
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Shared Resources, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Guillermo Gonzalez-Calderon
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Shared Resources, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | | | - Youngchul Kim
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Richard G. Roetzheim
- Department of Family Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Steven K. Sutton
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Susan T. Vadaparampil
- Department of Health and Behavioral Outcomes, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida
| | - Brenda Soto-Torres
- Public Health Program, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Peter A. Kanetsky
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida.,Corresponding Author: Peter A. Kanetsky, Department of Cancer Epidemiology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 Magnolia Drive, MRC-CANCONT, Tampa, FL 33612-9416. Phone: 813-745-2299; E-mail:
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A Randomized Trial of Precision Prevention Materials to Improve Primary and Secondary Melanoma Prevention Activities among Individuals with Limited Melanoma Risk Phenotypes. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133143. [PMID: 34201795 PMCID: PMC8267659 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Inherited genetic variation at the MC1R gene is associated with increased risk of melanoma among non-Hispanic whites (NHWs), especially among those with skin and pigmentation characteristics that are associated with average to lower melanoma risk, for whom MC1R genetic testing may reveal unrecognized melanoma risk. We conducted a randomized trial to examine whether providing MC1R genetic risk information together with precision prevention materials would increase primary and secondary melanoma preventive behaviors compared to providing generic prevention materials only. We found that among participants with MC1R variants associated with higher risk of melanoma, the intervention increased shade-seeking or using an umbrella, increased wearing sleeved shirts, and decreased sunburns among their young children. We conclude that MC1R genetic testing and precision prevention materials may increase the practice of some sun-protective behaviors. Abstract Inherited variation at MC1R is associated with elevated melanoma risk among non-Hispanic whites (NHWs). MC1R genetic testing may unmask previously unrecognized disease risk, especially among individuals with few melanoma phenotypic risk factors. We recruited NHW individuals with limited phenotypic risk factors from two primary care clinics in west-central Florida. Participants (n = 1134) were randomized within MC1R genotype risk group (average/higher) to receive mailed precision prevention (i.e., intervention) or generic prevention materials. Participants reported hours of weekday and weekend sun exposure, frequency of intentional outdoor tanning and sun protection behaviors, number of sunburns, indoor tanning episodes, and skin examinations at baseline, and after 6 and 12 months. Among MC1R higher-risk participants, the intervention increased the likelihood of often or always wearing a shirt with sleeves (OR = 1.49, p = 0.03) and seeking shade or using an umbrella (OR = 1.42, p = 0.046), and it decreased the number of sunburns among their young children (β = −0.13, p = 0.03). Intervention effects were not noted among MC1R average-risk participants. Moderation analyses identified intervention effects within subgroups in average-risk and higher-risk participants. Precision prevention information conveying MC1R testing results can increase the practice of some sun protection behaviors among at-risk individuals with limited melanoma risk phenotypes and may provide a cross-generational tool to counteract increasing incidence of melanoma.
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Thoonen K, van Osch L, Crutzen R, de Vries H, Schneider F. Identification of Relevant Sociocognitive Determinants Explaining Multiple Parental Sun Protection Behaviors. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2021; 49:392-404. [PMID: 34053307 PMCID: PMC9150145 DOI: 10.1177/10901981211010434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Adequate sun safety during childhood is crucial for decreasing skin cancer risk in later life. Although parents are an essential target group in applying sun protection measures for their children, insight into the determinants associated with their sun protection behaviors is limited. Aims This study aims to identify the most relevant determinants in predicting multiple parental sun protection intentions and behaviors in different sun exposure situations. Method A longitudinal survey study with two measurements was conducted among Dutch parents (N = 670) of children (4–12 years old). Twenty-seven sociocognitive determinants were examined in terms of relevance regarding four parental sun protection behaviors in different sun exposure situations. The Confidence Interval-Based Estimation of Relevance approach was used to visualize room for improvement (sample means) on all determinants and their association strengths (correlations) with sun protection intentions and behaviors. Results Behavior-specific rather than generic determinants were most relevant in explaining all sun protection behaviors. Of these determinants, attitude, self-efficacy and action planning, and especially parental feelings of difficulty in performing sun protection behaviors, were most relevant. Altogether, the explained variance of all sociocognitive determinants was highest for shade-seeking behavior (R2 = .41 and .43) and lowest for supportive behavior (R2 = .19 and .29) in both planned and incidental sun exposure situations, respectively. Discussion This study provides detailed insight into relevant sociocognitive determinants of parental sun protection behaviors in various sun exposure situations and directions for composing parental skin cancer prevention interventions. Conclusions Future composition of sun safety interventions should emphasize on enhancing parental feelings of self-efficacy, especially for shade-seeking and clothing behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlijn Thoonen
- Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Karlijn Thoonen, Department of Health Promotion, School CAPHRI, Maastricht University, P. Debyeplein 1, Maastricht, 6229 HA, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Rik Crutzen
- Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Költő A, Rodriguez L, McAvoy H, Nic Gabhainn S. Sunburn, Sun Safety and Indoor Tanning Among Schoolchildren in Ireland. Int J Public Health 2021; 66:1604045. [PMID: 34335148 PMCID: PMC8284860 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2021.1604045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: We present patterns of sunburn, sun safety behaviors and indoor tanning bed use in a nationally representative sample of schoolchildren aged 10–17. These behaviors were explored across gender, age, and social class groups. Methods: Within the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) Ireland study, 10,271 young people (aged 13.54 ± 1.92, percentage girls 53.3%) reported frequency of sun safety behaviors, sunburn, and frequency and circumstances of indoor tanning bed use. Results: Children frequently experienced sunburn (90% lifetime, 74% last year), and 3% reported never using any sun protection. Applying sunscreen and wearing sunglasses were the most commonly used sun safety measures; other ways of sun protection were less popular. Indoor tanning bed use was reported by around 5%, and a large proportion of users were not advised of any indoor tanning safety measures. Sun safety behaviors varied by age and gender, with some socio-economic differences in tanning bed use. An association was found between frequency of family holidays abroad and sunburn. Conclusion: Targeted interventions are needed to increase sun safety behaviors and eliminate tanning bed use among children in Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- András Költő
- Health Promotion Research Centre, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | | | | | - Saoirse Nic Gabhainn
- Health Promotion Research Centre, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Thoonen K, van Osch L, Drittij R, de Vries H, Schneider F. A Qualitative Exploration of Parental Perceptions Regarding Children's Sun Exposure, Sun Protection, and Sunburn. Front Public Health 2021; 9:596253. [PMID: 33681123 PMCID: PMC7930008 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.596253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sun protection among children is of utmost importance since sunburn in early life is a major risk factor for skin cancer development. Because parents play a vital role in enhancing sun safety among children, this study explored parental perceptions concerning sun exposure, sun protection behaviors, and sunburn in children. Additionally, the context in which children experience sunburn in order to assist the development, optimization, and targeting of sun safety interventions for parents is revealed. A qualitative study design, using a semi-structured interview guide addressing several themes (e.g., sun exposure, sun protection, and sunburn experiences), was used. Data were collected in the Netherlands in the fall of 2019. Parents were recruited via purposive sampling at schools, youth services centers, and social media. Execution, transcription, and coding of the interviews was done by two researchers, using the qualitative analyzing program Nvivo (interrater reliability of d = 0.84). In total, 26 interviews were performed (n = 17 mothers, n = 17 daughters, aged between 4 and 11 years). Parental perceptions and recall of their child's lifetime sunburn were frequent, even though all parents reported using at least one sun protection measure during sun exposure situations and parents seemed often unaware of their child's sunburn. Moreover, parents reported an overreliance on sunscreen, often failing to adequately protect their children's skin. Water-related activities, a lack of shade, and misconceptions regarding UV-index were often related to sunburn. In addition, unexpected sun exposure or longer exposure duration than initially planned were reported as challenging situations. The majority of parents had positive perceptions regarding tanned skin for both themselves as for children. This study provides directions for skin cancer prevention efforts targeted at both parents and their children. Since a lack of knowledge regarding sufficient sun protection measures and sunburn occurrence in various situations was reported, educational efforts are warranted. Additionally, focusing on clothing, shade-seeking, and adequate sunscreen use is recommended to increase children's sun safety. By intervening in the physical environment as well (e.g., providing shady areas), sun protection barriers can be reduced. Lastly, the general positive attitude toward tanned skin evident in this study is certainly worthy of attention in future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlijn Thoonen
- Department of Health Promotion, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth van Osch
- Department of Health Promotion, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Rowan Drittij
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Health Sciences Master, Health Education and Promotion, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Hein de Vries
- Department of Health Promotion, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Francine Schneider
- Department of Health Promotion, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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Asai Y, Armstrong D, McPhie ML, Xue C, Rosen CF. Systematic Review of Interventions to Increase Awareness of Ultraviolet Radiation-Induced Harm and Protective Behaviors in Post-Secondary School Adults. J Cutan Med Surg 2021; 25:424-436. [PMID: 33566702 PMCID: PMC8311911 DOI: 10.1177/1203475420988863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
College and university students are a group known for excessive sun exposure and indoor tanning. Health education campaigns for avoidance of ultraviolet (UV) radiation have been relatively unsuccessful in this population. This systematic review examines interventions aimed at post-secondary school young adults on college and university campuses for skin cancer awareness, photoprotection, and change in UV-exposure-related behavior. Fifty-nine studies were identified for inclusion according to predetermined criteria. Study heterogeneity was high; methods of intervention were individual or group-based, and were mostly visually delivered and/or passive learning. Most interventions occurred at a single time point. Intervention success was assessed by evaluating subject behavior, intention, attitudes, knowledge, and emotion. Multicomponent interventions, generally consisting of UV photography and a passively delivered educational component, may be more effective than a single component alone. Overall, study quality was poor. Sample size of the majority of studies was <150 subjects. Most studies used self-report of behavior and had a short follow-up time. Generalizability of findings may be impacted as women, particularly white/Caucasian women, were overrepresented in the studies identified by this systematic review. For this specific target population, themes arising from the review include the importance of self-relevance and message framing. Self-affirmation was identified as a potential challenge in designing interventions for this target group, which can lead to defensiveness and a negative reaction to the health message. The findings of this systematic review may inform future research in this field, as well as guide planning of effective interventions in this target population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Asai
- 384808 Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University and Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Dawn Armstrong
- 104820 Queen's University, School of Medicine, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Meghan L McPhie
- 104820 Queen's University, School of Medicine, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Chao Xue
- 384808 Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University and Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Cheryl F Rosen
- 266254257 Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and Toronto Western Hospital, ON, Canada
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Thoonen K, Schneider F, Candel M, de Vries H, van Osch L. Childhood sun safety at different ages: relations between parental sun protection behavior towards their child and children's own sun protection behavior. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1044. [PMID: 31382940 PMCID: PMC6683475 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7382-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sunburns during childhood are strongly associated with development of melanoma in later life. While parents play an important role in children's sun protection, insight in possible shifts in behavioral responsibility from parents towards their children and the possible effect of children's sex is important for targeting sun safety interventions throughout childhood and adolescence. METHODS This cross-sectional survey study was conducted among a representative sample of Dutch parents (N = 1053) of children aged between 4 and 13 years old. Questionnaires measured both parental and children's own sun safety behavior during planned (e.g. going to the beach) and incidental (e.g. bycicling) sun exposure situations. Analyses of variance were used to test for age group differences and linear regression models were computed to detect behavioral shifts in executive behavior. RESULTS Parents applied all sun safety behaviors (i.e. sunscreen use, wearing UV-protective clothing and seeking shade) more often on younger children, except for supportive behavior (facilitating children's own sun safety behavior), which remained relatively stable over the years. Older children and girls were more likely to execute sun safety behaviors themselves. A behavioral shift was found in wearing UV-protective clothing during planned situations among 11 year old children. For other behaviors, shifts were predicted after the age of 13. CONCLUSIONS Older children execute sun safety behaviors more often than younger children, although they still largely depend on their parents' protection. Specific attention for boys in the primary school years, and for both boys and girls in the years adjacent to adolescence is warranted in skin cancer prevention interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlijn Thoonen
- Department of Health Promotion, School CAPHRI, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Francine Schneider
- Department of Health Promotion, School CAPHRI, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Math Candel
- Department of Methodology and Statistics School CAPHRI, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Hein de Vries
- Department of Health Promotion, School CAPHRI, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth van Osch
- Department of Health Promotion, School CAPHRI, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Littlewood Z, Greenfield S. Parents' knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding sun protection in children: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:207. [PMID: 29391005 PMCID: PMC5796497 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-5091-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Childhood is a critical period for sun protection, when the skin is particularly susceptible to the carcinogenic effects of ultraviolet radiation. Children are dependent upon parents to implement sun protective measures. Existing qualitative research exploring parents’ attitudes and beliefs underpinning children’s sun protection is from Australia, which has the highest melanoma incidence rates globally, and thus benefits from widespread sun protection awareness campaigns. Parents’ sun protective behaviour may, therefore, differ between Australia and the UK. This study investigates the topic in a UK context, using qualitative methodology to gain detailed insights into a relatively under-researched area. The aim of the study was to explore parents’ knowledge and understanding of sun protection in children, and factors that motivate and challenge them in this area. Finally, it aimed to determine if and how ethnicity and skin type influence these attitudes and beliefs. Methods Twenty-two semi-structured individual interviews were carried out with parents of children aged 5 years or younger, recruited from local nurseries. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Four overarching themes emerged, each incorporating two to three sub-themes. ‘Attitudes towards children’s sun protection’ refers to the fact that parents considered sun protection to be important for children, a finding which was consistent between different skin types. ‘Sun protection practices’ brings together several protective behaviours adopted in children and, to a lesser degree, in parents, and their associated disadvantages. ‘Sun safety knowledge’ refers to parents’ awareness of the risks of sun exposure and the need for protection, and illustrates where gaps in knowledge exist, such as regarding the need for vitamin D, and the importance of vigilant sun protection even in the UK. Finally, ‘motivating and facilitating factors’ highlights motivations for sun protection in children, and factors that facilitate it in practice. Conclusion This study found parents to be motivated and concerned about children’s sun protection, irrespective of children’s ethnicity, and aware of appropriate protective behaviours. It indicates key challenges which could be targeted in future campaigns in order to improve sun protection in children and reduce uncertainty and anxiety regarding sun safety amongst parents. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12889-018-5091-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Littlewood
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Sheila Greenfield
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Murray Learning Centre, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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Cestari T, Buster K. Photoprotection in specific populations: Children and people of color. J Am Acad Dermatol 2017; 76:S110-S121. [PMID: 28038884 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2016.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Revised: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/24/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Improved education on appropriate photoprotection in children is vital. Photoprotection for these individuals should include seeking shade, the use of physical agents (clothing, hat, sunglasses), and application of sunscreens on exposed areas. Avoidance of the use of tanning beds is an important component of education for teenagers. Ultraviolet radiation exposure induces DNA damage and photoaging in all skin types, including people of color. The extent of such damage is inversely related to constitutive skin pigmentation. Therefore, personalized photoprotection recommendations concerning skin cancer risk factors, desired treatment outcomes, health needs (eg, vitamin D), and photoaging based on the needs and preferences of the patient are essential. It is clear that additional research is needed on optimal levels of protection against ultraviolet radiation for people of color.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Cestari
- Department of Dermatology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, School of Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| | - Kesha Buster
- Buster Dermatology, Tulsa, Oklahoma; University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
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Amaro-Ortiz A, Yan B, D'Orazio JA. Ultraviolet radiation, aging and the skin: prevention of damage by topical cAMP manipulation. Molecules 2014; 19:6202-19. [PMID: 24838074 PMCID: PMC4344124 DOI: 10.3390/molecules19056202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2014] [Revised: 05/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Being the largest and most visible organ of the body and heavily influenced by environmental factors, skin is ideal to study the long-term effects of aging. Throughout our lifetime, we accumulate damage generated by UV radiation. UV causes inflammation, immune changes, physical changes, impaired wound healing and DNA damage that promotes cellular senescence and carcinogenesis. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and among the malignancies of highest increasing incidence over the last several decades. Melanoma incidence is directly related to age, with highest rates in individuals over the age of 55 years, making it a clear age-related disease. In this review, we will focus on UV-induced carcinogenesis and photo aging along with natural protective mechanisms that reduce amount of “realized” solar radiation dose and UV-induced injury. We will focus on the theoretical use of forskolin, a plant-derived pharmacologically active compound to protect the skin against UV injury and prevent aging symptoms by up-regulating melanin production. We will discuss its use as a topically-applied root-derived formulation of the Plectranthus barbatus (Coleus forskolii) plant that grows naturally in Asia and that has long been used in various Aryuvedic teas and therapeutic preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Amaro-Ortiz
- The Graduate Center for Toxicology, the Markey Cancer Center and the Department of Pediatrics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Betty Yan
- The Graduate Center for Toxicology, the Markey Cancer Center and the Department of Pediatrics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - John A D'Orazio
- The Graduate Center for Toxicology, the Markey Cancer Center and the Department of Pediatrics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
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Kyle RG, MacMillan I, Forbat L, Neal RD, O'Carroll RE, Haw S, Hubbard G. Scottish adolescents' sun-related behaviours, tanning attitudes and associations with skin cancer awareness: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2014; 4:e005137. [PMID: 24793258 PMCID: PMC4025409 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2014-005137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe Scottish adolescents' sun-related behaviours and tanning attitudes and assess associations with skin cancer awareness. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING 20 state secondary schools in one Scottish local authority (Glasgow City). PARTICIPANTS 2173 adolescents (females: 50.7%, n=1102) with a mean age of 12.4 (SD=0.55). OUTCOME MEASURES Sun-related behaviour (suntan, sunbathing, sunburn, sunscreen use, sunbed use), tanning attitudes, skin cancer-related symptom and risk factor awareness. RESULTS Adolescents reported poor sun-related practice: 51% of adolescents reported sunburn the previous summer of whom 38% indicated sunburn on more than one occasion. Skin cancer awareness was low: 45% recognised 'change in the appearance of a mole' as a cancer symptom, and 39% agreed that 'getting sunburnt more than once as a child' increased cancer risk. 42% and 26% of adolescents, respectively, reported that friends and family held protanning attitudes. Compared with males, females were statistically significantly more likely to: report sunbathing (p<0.001), use of lotions or oil to aid tanning (p=0.009) and sunburn (p<0.001); know that changes in the appearance of a mole was a skin cancer symptom (p=0.036) and sunburn more than once as a child was a skin cancer risk factor (p=0.005); perceive their friends to hold protanning attitudes (p<0.001) and indicate that a tan made them feel better about themselves (p<0.001), more attractive to others (p=0.011) and healthier (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Scottish adolescents had poor sun protection practice and low skin cancer awareness. Girls adopted riskier sun-related behaviour despite greater awareness of skin cancer-related risk. Urgent action is required to promote positive sun-related behaviour and increase skin cancer awareness among Scottish adolescents. However, further research is needed to inform the development of effective sun-safe interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard G Kyle
- Cancer Care Research Centre, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | | | - Liz Forbat
- Cancer Care Research Centre, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Richard D Neal
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Ronan E O'Carroll
- Division of Psychology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Sally Haw
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Gill Hubbard
- Cancer Care Research Centre, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
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Bodekaer Larsen M, Petersen B, Philipsen PA, Young A, Thieden E, Wulf HC. Sun exposure and protection behavior of Danish farm children: parental influence on their children. Photochem Photobiol 2014; 90:1193-8. [PMID: 24749661 DOI: 10.1111/php.12280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Healthy sun habits acquired in childhood could reduce skin cancer incidence. We examined the sun exposure and protection behavior of an expected high-exposure group of children, and the association to their parents. Open, prospective cohort study. One hundred and thirty nine participants (40 families) kept daily sun behavior diaries (sun exposure, sunscreen use, sunburns) over a 4-month summer period (15,985 diary days). The Pigment Protection Factor (PPF), an objective measure of sun exposure, was measured at two body sites, before and after summer. All participants presented data from the same 115 days. Risk behavior (sun exposure of upper body) took place on 9.5 days (boys) and 15.6 days (girls). Sunburn and sunscreen use were infrequent. Boys' sun exposure resulted in an increased photo protection over the study period of 1.7 SED (upper arm) and 0.8 SED (shoulder) to elicit erythema. Corresponding values for girls were as follows: 0.9 SED (upper arm) and 0.5 SED (shoulder). Boys' sunscreen use correlated to their mothers' (r = 0.523, P = 0.02). Girls' number of risk days (r = 0.552, P = 0.005) and sun exposure (upper arm: r = 0.621, P < 0.001) correlated to their mothers'. The children's sun exposure was substantial. Only mothers influenced children's sun behavior and exposure. This may be of relevance in future sun protection campaigns.
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