Pediatric dermatology
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Pediatric dermatology · Jan 2010
Comparative StudySunburns, sun protection and indoor tanning behaviors, and attitudes regarding sun protection benefits and tan appeal among parents of U.S. adolescents-1998 compared to 2004.
This study presents nationally representative trends (1998-2004) and patterns in skin cancer risk behaviors, including sunburns, sun protection, and indoor tanning behaviors, and attitudes regarding ultraviolet radiation exposure among parents of U. S. adolescents. Data were from the American Cancer Society Sun Surveys I and II, telephone-based random digit dialed cross-sectional surveys of U. ⋯ About 13% practiced indoor tanning in the past year. Parents reported high levels of positive attitudes toward sun protection benefit, but at the same time, significant proportions reported positive tan appeal and outdoor sun exposure attitudes. The low rates and mixed progress in safe ultraviolet radiation exposure behaviors demand more attention for primary skin cancer prevention among parents of adolescents that focuses on changing beliefs about tanning appeal and promotes comprehensive ultraviolet radiation exposure protection.