Skin Cancer Prevention, Tanning and Vitamin D: A Content Analysis of Print Media in Germany and Switzerland.
BACKGROUND
Print media are a major source of health information.


OBJECTIVE
To analyse press coverage related to skin cancer prevention.


METHODS
We conducted a content analysis of print media articles pertaining to skin cancer prevention, solaria and vitamin D published in Germany and Switzerland over a 1-year period between 2012 and 2013.


RESULTS
Overall, 2,103 articles were analysed. Applying sunscreen was by far the most common sun protection recommendation. A considerable number of articles on solaria and vitamin D advocated exposure to ultraviolet radiation to enhance physical appearance and vitamin D photosynthesis, often without mentioning any precaution measures. In total, 26.8% of the articles contained misleading or erroneous statements mostly related to sunscreen use and vitamin D issues.


CONCLUSIONS
Print media can serve as powerful education tools to foster skin cancer prevention. However, misleading or erroneous reports may negatively impact sun-safe behaviour.
Basel Pharmacoepidemiology Unit, Division of Clinical Pharmacy and Epidemiology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
Daphne
D
Reinau
Christoph R
CR
Meier
Ralf
R
Blumenthal
Christian
C
Surber
D005858:Germany; D006266:Health Education; D006801:Humans; D008402:Mass Media; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D055108:Sunbathing; D013473:Sunscreening Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013557:Switzerland; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014807:Vitamin D / Q000096:biosynthesis*
D013473:Sunscreening Agents; D014807:Vitamin D