Increasing sun protection in winter outdoor recreation a theory-based health communication program.
BACKGROUND
Unprotected and excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the primary risk factor for skin cancer.


METHODS
A pair-matched, group-randomized, pre-test/post-test, quasi-experimental design, with ski resorts as the unit of randomization, tested the effectiveness of Go Sun Smart, a multi-channel skin cancer prevention program. Independent samples of guests were taken at baseline (2001) and follow-up (2002); data were analyzed in 2006.


METHODS
A total of 6516 adult guests at 26 ski areas in the western U.S. and Canada were recruited, consented, and interviewed on chairlifts. This study was nested within an occupational intervention for ski area workers.


METHODS
Ski areas were pair-matched and randomized to receive Go Sun Smart, which consisted of print, electronic, visual, and interpersonal skin cancer prevention messages.


METHODS
Sun-protection behaviors, sunburning, recall of sun-protection messages, and the association of message exposure to sun protection.


RESULTS
The difference in recall of all sun-protection messages, messages on signs and posters, and the Go Sun Smart logo was significant between the intervention and control resorts. Reported use of sun-protection practices was higher by guests at intervention ski areas using more (a higher dose of) Go Sun Smart materials. Intervention-group guests who recalled a sun-safety message were more likely to practice sun safety than intervention-group guests who did not recall a message and control-group guests.


CONCLUSIONS
While the mere implementation of Go Sun Smart did not produce sun-safety improvements, Go Sun Smart appeared to be effective for guests who encountered and remembered it. Many factors can work against message exposure. Signage seemed to produce the greatest increase in exposure to sun-safety messages.
Walkosz
Barbara J
BJ
University of Colorado, Denver Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado 80217, USA. Barbara.Walkosz@cudenver.edu
Buller
David B
DB
Andersen
Peter A
PA
Scott
Michael D
MD
Dignan
Mark B
MB
Cutter
Gary R
GR
Maloy
Julie A
JA
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006266:Health Education / Q000379:methods*; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012621:Seasons; D012865:Skiing; D013471:Sunburn / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013473:Sunscreening Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D013473:Sunscreening Agents