Ultraviolet Protection Behaviors and Beliefs Among Young Adult Dermatology Patients

Abstract

Background: Although skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, it is highly preventable by reducing exposure to ultraviolet radiation. This descriptive, correlational study describes the ultraviolet protection behaviors and beliefs of young adult dermatology patients. Methods: Eighty-two dermatology patients aged 18Y30 years were recruited from a suburban dermatology clinic in northern Utah. An investigator-developed questionnaire assessed ultraviolet protection stages of change, attitudes, and self-efficacy. Results: Participants reported that on average they were in the preparation stage, had positive ultraviolet protection attitudes, and felt that it was neither easy nor difficult to use ultraviolet protection measures. Individuals who were older, more educated, had more sun-sensitive skin types, and spent less time outdoors on nonworkdays reported more responsible ultraviolet protection behaviors and beliefs. Conclusions: The ultraviolet protection beliefs within this sample indicate generally favorable ultraviolet protection attitudes and adequate knowledge of ultraviolet exposure risks. Conversely, this sample reported inadequate and differential use of ultraviolet protection behaviors. Correlations involving demographic and clinical factors reveal that ultraviolet protection behaviors and beliefs are difficult to predict. Additional study findings support the need for continued efforts to promote ultraviolet protection among all young adults.

The Family Nurse Practitioner

“…It is important to consider why indoor tanning bed users scored higher on the questionnaire than non-tanning bed users. Previous research is not conclusive about whether or increasing a person's knowledge correlates with behavioral change (Linton, 2009, Gibson, 2005Green, 2003. Previous studies also reported that individuals who were considered at high-risk for skin cancer or who already been diagnosed with skin cancer were significantly more likely to be counseled by a healthcare provider about skin cancer prevention (Freiman, 2005).…”

“…One study specifically examined dermatology patients' knowledge and reported that dermatology patients perceived sun protective measures as positive. Ironically, dermatology patients demonstrated inadequate use of protective measures (Linton, 2009).…”

Beliefs and Practices Regarding Skin Cancer Prevention

“…None of the respondents mentioned skin self-assessment as a preventive measure against skin cancer. In a study of young adult beliefs about ultraviolet (UV) protection behaviors, Linton and Jones (2009) found that the UV protection beliefs within the sample population were generally favorable and that the participants had adequate knowledge of the risks of UV exposure.…”

Family Nurse Practitioner

“…One study specifically examined dermatology patients' knowledge and reported that dermatology patients perceived sun protective measures as positive. Ironically, dermatology patients demonstrated inadequate use of protective measures (Linton, 2009). Cottrell ( 2005) also found that although college age students could correctly identify sun protective measures, their use of sunscreen and other UV protective behaviors were low.…”