American researchers have revealed some effective ways to promote the use of sunscreen, especially for seniors who are at high risk of skin cancer.
- 31% of respondents regularly applied sunscreen during the summer or when exposed to the sun for more than an hour.
- Women and participants with higher education were more likely to use sunscreen.
“Results of epidemiological research indicate that the number of sunburns in adulthood and the number of lifetime sunburns are both important risk factors for melanoma. Yet prevention campaigns against skin cancer have largely ignored American adults around the age of 65,” wrote scientists from the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, in work published in the journal The Journal of the Dermatology Nurses’ Association.
Different motivations
In this study, researchers analyzed common misconceptions about sunscreen use among 237 white adults, aged 50 or older, using data from an online survey. The team chose this population because they are more likely to get sunburn or be diagnosed with skin cancer.
According to the results, participants who thought that using sunscreen would prevent them from getting sunburned were more likely to apply it. People whose loved ones, specifically the partner, reminded them to use sunscreen, were more likely to put it on. Volunteers who thought sunscreen took too long to apply used the product less.
How to encourage the elderly to use sunscreen?
“Given the high incidence rates of skin cancer among older adults in the United States, effective sun protection intervention strategies are needed for older adults to reduce their risk of developing cancer. Current findings can help shape and direct these efforts.” can we read in the works.
To encourage older people to apply sunscreen regularly, emphasize how sunscreen can protect against sunburn instead of emphasizing the risk of future skin cancer. According to the authors, patients should choose products that meet their preferences, such as a sunscreen spray that can quickly cover large areas of skin.
