Prevalence and determinants of Australian adolescents' and adults' weekend sun protection and sunburn, summer 2003-2004

Abstract

Background: Reducing people's exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the primary strategy for skin cancer prevention. Objective: We sought to provide comprehensive national data on preventive behaviors and risk assessment for Australia. Methods: A national survey was conducted in summer 2003-2004. In 8 weekly cross-sectional surveys, adults and adolescents were interviewed about their sun protection and sunburn on the previous summer weekend. Adjustments were made for specific weather and ultraviolet radiation conditions relevant to time and location. Results: Adolescents were relatively homogeneous in their low compliance with sun protection (significantly less use of hats, covering clothing,..