Primary school children's perceptions of the effects of sun on skin.
To assess whether young children understand the dangers and results of sun exposure, a novel Draw and Write technique was used to survey a group of 5-8 year old primary school children. One hundred and ninety-four children were invited to draw and write comments to six scenarios involving sun exposure. Of the children surveyed, 84% gave a negative sentiment to sunburn, with only 6% displaying positive sentiments towards sunbathing. Sixty-five per cent of children suggested the use of sun blocks, 69% the use of protective clothing, 45% the wearing of hats and 43% the use of shade as a mechanism for protecting the skin from sun damage. Only 2% of children made any reference to skin cancer. The primary school children surveyed had a good level of awareness of the dangers of sunburn and the need to take appropriate actions to avoid sun damage.
Rademaker
M
M
Department of Dermatology, Health Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand.
Wyllie
K
K
Collins
M
M
Wetton
N
N
D001294:Attitude to Health; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009520:New Zealand; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013472:Sunlight / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013473:Sunscreening Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage
D013473:Sunscreening Agents