J Prev Med Public Health.  2013 Mar;46(2):82-88.

Perceived Relevance of Educative Information on Public (Skin) Health: A Cross-sectional Questionnaire Survey

• Haluza D
• Cervinka R

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Unprotected leisure time exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or artificial tanning beds is the most important environmental risk factor for melanoma, a malignant skin cancer with increasing incidences over the past decades. The aim of the present study was to assess the impact of skin health information provided by several sources and different publishing issues on knowledge, risk perception, and sun protective behavior of sunbathers.
METHODS
A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted among Austrian residents (n=563) spending leisure time outdoors in August 2010.
RESULTS
Print media, television, and family were perceived as the most relevant sources of information on skin health, whereas the source physician was only ranked as fourth important source. Compared to other sources, information provided by doctors positively influenced participants' knowledge on skin risk and sun protective behavior resulting in higher scores in the knowledge test (p=0.009), higher risk perception (p<0.001), and more sun protection (p<0.001). Regarding gender differences, internet was more often used by males as health information source, whereas females were more familiar with printed information material in general.
CONCLUSIONS
The results of this survey put emphasis on the demand for information provided by medical professionals in order to attain effective, long-lasting promotion of photoprotective habits.

Keyword

Gender; Health education; Melanoma prevention; Public Health; Skin health promotion; Sun protection

MeSH Terms

Adolescent
Adult
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Cross-Sectional Studies
Female
Health Behavior
*Health Education
Health Promotion
Humans
Male
Melanoma/*prevention & control
Middle Aged
Public Health
Questionnaires
Risk Factors
Skin Neoplasms/*prevention & control
Sunburn/prevention & control
Sunscreening Agents/therapeutic use
Ultraviolet Rays
Young Adult
Sunscreening Agents