title: The role of skin cancer knowledge in sun-related behaviours: a systematic review.
abstract: Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in many Western countries. This systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of the relationship between skin cancer knowledge and sun-protective, exposure and tanning behaviours in the general population. A total of 34 studies, published in peer-reviewed journals over three decades, were reviewed and synthesised. Sun-protective behaviour was positively associated with skin cancer knowledge in most cases. Findings were inconsistent regarding other sun-related behaviours. Heterogeneity in measurement compromised the capacity to definitively link knowledge and sun-related behaviours. There is a need for development and utilisation of a standardised skin cancer knowledge scale, and guidelines are suggested.
authors.affiliation: University of Adelaide, Australia ashley.day@adelaide.edu.au.
authors.forename: Ashley K
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Day
authors.affiliation: Flinders University, Australia Cancer Council South Australia, Australia.
authors.forename: Carlene J
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Wilson
authors.affiliation: Flinders University, Australia Cancer Council South Australia, Australia.
authors.forename: Amanda D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Hutchinson
authors.affiliation: University of Adelaide, Australia.
authors.forename: Rachel M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Roberts
mesh_terms: D015438:Health Behavior; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology*; D013472:Sunlight / Q000009:adverse effects*
keywords: cancer; health behaviour; health education; health promotion; systematic review