The role of skin cancer knowledge in sun-related behaviours: A systematic review

Abstract

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in many Western countries. This systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of the relationship between skin cancer knowledge and sun-protective, exposure and tanning behaviours in the general population. A total of 34 studies, published in peer-reviewed journals over three decades, were reviewed and synthesised. Sun-protective behaviour was positively associated with skin cancer knowledge in most cases. Findings were inconsistent regarding other sun-related behaviours. Heterogeneity in measurement compromised the capacity to definitively link knowledge and sun-related behaviours. There is a need for development and utilisation of a standardised skin cancer knowledge scale, and guidelines are suggested.

Prevalence and predictors of sunburn among beachgoers

“…Finally, in line with earlier studies, we find that sun‐related attitudes and knowledge play an important role in preventing sunburn, as sunburn rates are higher among beachgoers who view tanning more favourably and are less knowledgeable about skin cancer. Interventions based on presenting visual evidence of the skin damage caused by solar exposure have achieved promising results, both in the short and in the long term, improving not only photoprotection practices but also reducing durations of sun exposure and rates of sunburn.…”

Knowledge and attitudes of UK university students in relation to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure and their sun-related behaviours: a qualitative study

“…In protecting against UVR, family, mainly parents, initiated practices that continued from childhood to young adulthood. In parallel with western literature on young adults' tanning motives, the subliminal message that a tan is a ‘good thing’, came from family,50 alongside peers19 and the media,51 who all encouraged tanning with appearance-related benefits and as a healthy lifestyle choice, resulting in psychological improvements 1719–21 40 Consequently, participants associated pale skin colour with feelings of insecurity, irrespective of gender.…”

“…Furthermore, despite incorrect use of sunscreen, its application falsely reassured participants their behaviours were safe. As sunscreen has equally been found to encourage greater sun exposure36 37 and is not sufficient protection alone,17 37–39 additional methods of protection, shade and covering up, must be promoted. Participants infrequently equated a tan with sun damage and instead viewed deepening colour with opportunity to lower sunscreen factor without risk of sunburn, thus ‘sunbathing safely’.…”

“…Parental influences and previous protective barriers can weaken as self-choice and more pre-eminent influences may determine their behaviours 17. Exploration of the knowledge and attitudes that influence UK university students' sun-related behaviours, as a sector of the young adult population, may help identify fundamental areas to be addressed for skin cancer prevention.…”

Skin Tone Dissatisfaction, Sun Exposure, and Sun Protection in Australian Adolescents

“…With the use of sun protective behaviors, skin cancer should be largely preventable [12]. However, knowledge does not translate into sun avoidant behavior [13,14].…”