Skin cancer education and early detection at the beach: A randomized trial of dermatologist examination and biometric feedback - 10/08/11
Dana-Farber Skin Cancer Screening Group
Abstract |
Background |
There are limited data on the effectiveness of skin cancer prevention education and early detection programs at beaches.
Objectives |
We evaluate 4 strategies for addressing skin cancer prevention in beach settings.
Methods |
This prospective study at 4 beaches included 4 intervention conditions: (1) education only; (2) education plus biometric feedback; (3) education plus dermatologist skin examination; or (4) education plus biometric feedback and dermatologist skin examination. Outcomes included sun protection behaviors, sunburns, and skin self-examinations.
Results |
There was a significant increase in hat wearing, sunscreen use, and a reduction in sunburns in the education plus biometric feedback group (odds ratio = 1.97, 1.94, and 1.07, respectively), and greater improvements in knowing what to look for in skin-self examinations (odds ratio = 1.13); there were no differences in frequency of self-examinations. Skin examinations plus biometric feedback led to greater reductions in sunburns. The dermatologist examinations identified atypical moles in 28% of participants.
Limitations |
Inclusion of only one beach per condition, use of self-report data, and a limited intervention period are limitations.
Conclusions |
Education and biometric feedback may be more effective than education alone for impacting sun protective attitudes and behaviors in beachgoing, high-risk populations.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Key words : skin cancer prevention, skin examinations, sun protection
Abbreviations used : AAD, DNP, SSE, UV
Plan
Supported by an unrestricted grant from the SHADE Foundation of America. |
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Conflicts of interest: None declared. |
Vol 64 - N° 2
P. 282-289 - février 2011 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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