Skin cancer prevention and care in the sun: An evaluation of knowledge, attitude and reported behaviour of Nottingham citizens

Abstract

Introduction Skin cancer is the commonest cancer in England and Wales. Although not a major killer, there were 1808 new cases in Nottingham in 19991. The trends in directly standardised registration rates for the years 1984 to 1993 in Nottingham also indicate that the incidence is rising. Objective The Nottingham skin cancer action group (SCAG) undertook a survey to determine the knowledge, attitude and reported behaviour of a sample of Nottingham's population. SCAG, is a multi-disciplinary working group which brings together professionals from the statutory and private sectors, to prevent skin cancer and promote sun safety, through organised community effort. Design Cross-sectional survey. Setting Shopping mall, north of Nottingham City centre. Method A self-completed, two-page Health Education Authority (HEA) questionnaire was administered to Nottingham citizens visiting SCAG's health promotion displays set-up at the local shopping centre. Completion was voluntary. Results Findings from the 381 respondents constitute a baseline for Nottingham. A gap between knowledge and reported behaviour was identified with respect to wearing of protective clothing whilst in the sun. Many were still exposing themselves to higher risk from the sun than is necessary. Over 30 per cent of child respondents had experienced sunburn in the previous 12 months. Inappropriate and ineffective use of sunscreen was common. Knowledge about increased susceptibility of fairer skin types was deficient. Conclusion Health promotion efforts need to be intensified to stem the rising trends in incidence and mortality from skin cancer. The use of innovative approaches that can engage the interest of the public more effectively should be considered. This work presents a challenge in relation to the translation of knowledge into practice.