Risk for skin cancer may be higher among uninsured women: Screening and prevention behaviors among public sector patients in central Florida

Background/Purpose: Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the US, with >1.3 million cases diagnosed annually. An estimated 4,250 cases of melanoma were diagnosed in Florida during 2004; among women in Florida, it is the sixth most common cancer. Risk factors for skin cancer include age, exposure to sunlight through work and play, moles, fair skin, and previous history of skin cancer. Florida residents are particularly at risk due to year round exposed to intense UV rays, and women of color may be at additional risk due to mistaken beliefs regarding a decreased need for sunscreen. The American Cancer Society indicates that the underinsured or uninsured have insufficient access to “high quality cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and rehabilitation”. This pilot study was conducted to identify risk factors for skin cancer among low income, uninsured populations attending public sector clinics in west-central Florida. Methods: Female patients (n=134) aged 18-65 at public sector clinics completed a survey on health risk factors and preventive practices, including those related to sun exposure. Approximately 75% of those surveyed were Hispanic; most did not speak English. Results/Discussion: More than half of the women indicated that they avoided the sun during peak risk hours, and 67% stated that they avoid artificial sources of ultraviolet light. However, ~60% reported not using protective clothing when exposed to sunlight and 51% did not use sunscreen. Findings suggest that public health education programs for women of color include preventive messages related to sun exposure and skin cancer risk.