Melanoma and skin cancer: evaluation of a health education programme for secondary schools.
The effectiveness of an education package for secondary schools about the sun and skin cancer was assessed using questionnaires. A variety of teaching methods was used, including pamphlets, workbooks, and a video. The effect of this material was assessed by asking pupils to complete questionnaires immediately after receiving the package (July), and after the summer holiday (September). Five-hundred and forty-three children from seven schools were recruited into the study. Results of the questionnaire demonstrated a significant difference in knowledge (P < 0.001) and reported attitude (P < 0.001) compared with a control group. There was no significant difference in behaviour of the taught groups compared with the control group. The only significant activity associated with increased knowledge was wearing a sunscreen (P < 0.005). In contrast, in terms of attitude, those who covered up in the sun (P < 0.0001), wore a sunscreen (P < 0.004), and sat in the shade (P < 0.02), had significantly better attitudes than those who did not behave in this way. This project is a first attempt to assess health education in schools, and reports changes in knowledge, attitudes, and some aspects of behaviour. Adolescents are a group who are difficult to influence, but our study has produced some useful information about how these children respond to such teaching measures.
Department of Dermatology, Royal London Hospital, U.K.
B R
BR
Hughes
D G
DG
Altman
J A
JA
Newton
D000293:Adolescent; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008488:Medical Illustration; D008545:Melanoma / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013471:Sunburn / Q000517:prevention & control; D013473:Sunscreening Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D013473:Sunscreening Agents