Sun exposure and sun-protection behaviors and attitudes among U.S. youth, 11 to 18 years of age.
BACKGROUND
Adolescence is a high-risk period for the development of melanoma and nonmelanocytic skin cancers later in life. This study examines the prevalence and correlates of sun-protection practices among U.S. youth.


METHODS
During July-October, 1998, a national, population-based telephone survey was conducted (N = 1,192 paired interviews of youth and their parents). Weighted prevalence and adjusted prevalence odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated. Multiple logistic regression analyses examined associations between sociodemographics, attitudes, and other modifiable correlates to specific behaviors.


RESULTS
Routinely practiced sun-protection behaviors among youth on sunny days were wearing sunglasses (32%) or long pants (21%), staying in the shade (22%), and applying sunscreen (31%). Fifty-eight percent used a sunscreen with SPF > or =15 when at the beach or pool. Age, sex, and sun sensitivity were associated with substantial variation in some sun-protection behaviors. Factors associated with specific sun-protection behaviors included a lower appeal to tanning, a higher perceived benefit of sun protection, and information from family and friends about sun protection.


CONCLUSIONS
Effective sun protection is practiced by less than one-third of U.S. youth. This baseline survey will help to monitor progress in skin cancer prevention in this critical age group in the future.
Cokkinides
V E
VE
Department of Epidemiology and Surveillance, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, Georgia 30329-4251, USA.
Johnston-Davis
K
K
Weinstock
M
M
O'Connell
M C
MC
Kalsbeek
W
W
Thun
M J
MJ
Wingo
P A
PA
D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior; D002648:Child; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D016017:Odds Ratio; D012879:Skin Physiological Phenomena; D012880:Skin Pigmentation; D013471:Sunburn / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013472:Sunlight; D014481:United States