Global survey reveals demand for additional photoprotection education in Australia...Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA) 26th Annual Congress, June 19-21, 2024, Brisbane, Queensland

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

6-1-2024

Publication Title

Australian Journal of Cancer Nursing

Abstract

Aim Skin cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers, and rates have increased rapidly over the last decade. Australia experiences the highest rate of skin cancer worldwide. Although highly preventable, skin cancer is a major burden on the healthcare system. Lack of education on photoprotection underpins this widespread prevalence and improvement in practices will be crucial to changing behaviours and attitudes. This study investigates the knowledge and behaviours relating to sun exposure in Australia. Methodology Representative samples of the population aged between 18-75 years were surveyed in 17 countries. Online interviews were conducted via Ipsos Access Panel, between September-October 2021. The quota method was applied to gender, age, occupation, region and market size, to ensure equal distribution of subjects surveyed. Data were compiled and analysed by the Ipsos team. Results On average, more Australians appear to be aware of sun-related skin issues compared to the rest of the world. However, fewer Australians (22%) relative to the rest of the world (30%) are aware of the difference between UVA and UVB rays. Fewer Australians believe a tan looks healthy. Relative to worldwide opinion, a greater proportion of Australians maintain their photoprotective behaviours when tanned, and fewer believe that unprotected sun exposure is safe when tanned. On average, Australians are more likely to engage in photoprotective behaviours compared to the worldwide population, with more practicing year-round sun protection, even on overcast days. More Australians also expressed remorse over past practices, wishing they had practiced alternative approaches to tackling sun exposure. Conclusion The results of this survey show that although Australians perform better in terms of photoprotective behaviours, an improvement in photoprotection education is needed, with the timing of this optimised for early in life to prevent sun damage and subsequent regret over past practices.

Volume

25

Issue

1

First Page

39

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