Abstract B16: The association between skin characteristics and sun-protection behaviors

Behaviors such as sunscreen use and use of skin-protective clothing can help prevent skin cancer, but little is known about how these sun protection behaviors vary by phenotypic risk factors for skin cancer.

We carried out a cross-sectional study (n = 6898) nested within a community-based prospective cohort in Washington County, MD. We measured the associations between skin cancer risk characteristics (skin type, complexion, freckling, and eye color) and personal sun protection behaviors (sunscreen and sun-protective clothing use).

The prevalence of regular use of sunscreen was 23%, and the prevalence of regular use of sun-protective clothing was 21%. There were consistent trends indicating those at highest risk of skin cancer were most likely to engage in sun protection behaviors. For example, compared to those who tan without burning, those who develop blistering sunburns were more likely to use sunscreen (OR 6.55, 95% CI 3.08 -13.92 men, OR 4.87, 95% CI 3.34 - 7.09 women) and sun-protective clothing (OR 2.90, 95% CI 1.73 - 4.85 men, OR 4.29, 95% CI 2.81 - 6.55 women). Those with fair skin were more likely than those with medium or dark brown complexion to use sunscreen or sun-protective clothing. Other factors significantly associated with sun protection behaviors were lifestyle-related factors such as lower body mass index and never smoking.

The overall prevalence of sun protection behaviors was low. Our results indicate individuals with the highest skin cancer susceptibility are most likely to use sunscreen and sun-protective clothing, and may also be most receptive to skin cancer prevention educational interventions.

Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2008;1(7 Suppl):B16.