Sun Protection Practices and Sun Exposure among Children with a Parental History of Melanoma

Abstract

Background First-degree relatives of melanoma survivors have a substantially higher lifetime risk for melanoma than individuals with no family history. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the primary modifiable risk factor for the disease. Reducing UV exposure through sun protection may be particularly important for children with a parental history of melanoma. Nonetheless, limited prior research has investigated sun protection practices and sun exposure among these children. Methods The California Cancer Registry was used to identify melanoma survivors eligible to participate in a survey to assess their children's sun protection practices and sun exposure. The survey was administered by mail, telephone, or web to Latino and non-Latino white melanoma survivors with at least one child (0–17 years; N = 324). Results Sun exposure was high and the rate of sunburn was equivalent to or higher than estimates from average risk populations. Use of sun protection was suboptimal. Latino children were less likely to wear sunscreen and hats and more likely to wear sunglasses, although these differences disappeared in adjusted analyses. Increasing age of the child was associated with lower sun protection and higher risk for sunburn whereas higher objective risk for melanoma predicted improved sun protection and a higher risk for sunburns. Perception of high barriers to sun protection was the strongest modifiable correlate of sun protection. Conclusions Interventions to improve sun protection and reduce sun exposure and sunburns in high risk children are needed. Impact Intervening in high risk populations may help reduce the burden of melanoma in the U.S.

Skin Examination Practices Among Melanoma Survivors and Their Children

“…Although the survey assessed a broad range of topics relevant to melanoma prevention in high-risk families with a primary focus on sun protection practices,[26] the present study utilizes data collected on skin examination practices of survivors and their children as well as potential correlates of these practices based on the Health Behavior Framework. [31] The primary study outcomes for this sub-study included skin self-examination among survivors and whole body skin exams of children performed by parents and health care providers.…”

“…[26] The purpose of this report was to assess the use of skin self-examination among melanoma survivors and to identify correlates of skin self-examination in this high-risk population. In addition, given the lack of data about the use of skin exams among high-risk children, a secondary purpose was to assess rates of skin exams performed on children of melanoma survivors by parents and healthcare professionals.…”

Ultraviolet Radiation Exposure and Its Impact on Skin Cancer Risk

“…94–96 Similarly, children of melanoma survivors do not appear to have different sun protection practices than those at average risk. 97 …”

Development of sun protection behaviors in preschoolers: A systematic review

“…Therefore, studies conducted with children in preschool education institutions constituted the target group of this study. I: Education initiatives on skin cancer and sun protection, as well as experimental studies based on one or all the sun protection behaviors, such as using sunscreen, staying in shaded areas, avoiding being outside between 10.00 and 16.00, and wearing wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, as well as long-sleeved attire, were included [22][23][24][25][26] . C: It was aimed to compare three different variables in studies conducted on skin cancer and sun protection during childhood, namely, a comparison of the effects of interventions made for children, their families, and their teachers.…”