Adolescent sun exposure knowledge and risk behaviors

The purpose of this study was to assess adolescent tanning practices & their knowledge of exposure risks. An eight item yes-no questionnaire was used. A sample of 78 was obtained (39 females & 35 males); age range 14 - 18. There was no significant difference in gender knowledge scores (t = 1.63, p = .107); mean score 13.8 (males) & 13.21 (females) (maximum = 16, range = 10-16). Those that received education about sun exposure had higher knowledge scores (r = .28, p = .01). Those with higher knowledge scores tended to use sunscreen (r = .40, p = .00), had a better understanding of when UV rays are most intense (r = .35, p = .002), & that tanning beds expose a person to UV rays (r = .41, p = .00). Those with higher knowledge scores tried to purposely tan more than those with lower knowledge scores (r = .63, p = .00), used tanning beds more (r = .65, p = 00), & felt a tan looked healthy (r = .47, p = .00). Males did not try to tan (F = 4.36, p = .04) or use tanning beds as frequently as females (F = 12.95, p = .001). Adolescents are receiving sun exposure risk education, are knowledgeable about the risks factors, & are using sunscreen for protection. They continue to do behaviors that place them at risk for skin cancer despite this knowledge. Further research is needed regarding the reasons for ongoing exposure risk behaviors.