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DOI: 10.1177/1077727X04272367 © 2005 American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences A Longitudinal Study of Sun-Protective Attitudes and BehaviorsUniversity of Minnesota
University of Minnesota
University of Minnesota The goal of this research was to determine the long-term viability of a sun health message. A multi-part educational intervention on hazards of sun exposure and methods of protection was delivered to fifth- and sixth-grade students, followed by a questionnaire to assess learning of the message. Four years later, participants were tracked and a questionnaire administered to assess retention of the sun health message. No formal sun health educational programs were delivered over the 4-year period. Participants retained the knowledge that sun can cause cancer and skin damage; however, the importance of appearance to these teens seems to have affected decisions about sun protection methods. Four years later, as teens, the students preferred a sun-tanned appearance and rejected methods of sun protection, especially the use of sun-protective clothing.
Key Words: sun protection skin cancer health education
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