This presentation will: (1) describe current applications of theories in community-based skin cancer prevention, (2) examine an emerging model based on empirical data, (3) discuss implications for developing community-based interventions. A recent review of skin cancer prevention programs points to a lack of theoretical foundations in most interventions. The need to incorporate theory into comprehensive interventions has been identified as a priority. This presentation will review the use of established theories and report results from a series of studies that identified a conceptual model to explain factors that influence sun protective behaviours among children. Data were analysed from four sub-studies that are part of a larger study on sun protective behaviours: (1) observational data on a sample of 161 children at beaches, (2) survey data from parents (n=94), (3) in-depth interview data from parents (n=25), and (4) focus groups with parents (n=40). The study focuses on children 5 to 12 years of age, living in British Columbia, Canada. Qualitative data from in-depth interviews were transcribed and analysed using grounded theory method. Quantitative data analysis used descriptive techniques to specify patterns of sun-related behaviours. Multiple regression was used to determine predictors of inadequate sun protection. Results from the qualitative and quantitative analyses were used to develop a model that describes relationships among behavioural and non-behavioural constructs, including environmental and organisational factors, family norms, as well as cultural and climatic context. This model is being used to inform the development of a comprehensive community-based intervention tailored to children and their parents.
Learning Objectives: This presentation will: (1) describe current applications of theories in community-based skin cancer prevention, (2) examine an emerging model based on empirical data, (3) discuss implications for developing community-based interventions
Keywords: Cancer Prevention, Child Health Promotion
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.