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Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
Sun-protection behaviors among African Americans
Latrice C Pichon1, Irma Corral, Hope Landrine
1Department of Health Management and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 109 Observatory, Ann Arbor MI 48109-2029, USA. lpichon@umich.edu
Background:
Data suggest that the prevalence of sun-protection behaviors is low (44%) among African Americans; the samples in such studies, however, tended to be small or nonrepresentative.
Purpose:
This article aims to examine the prevalence and correlates of sun-protection behaviors among a large, random, statewide sample of African-American adults living in California to ascertain behavioral patterns and highlight directions for targeted interventions.
Methods:
From September 2006 through May 2008, an anonymous health survey collected data on sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brim hat use among a random sample of 2187 African-American adults, and assessed demographic, regional, skin type, and other potential correlates of these behaviors. The analysis was conducted in 2009.
Results:
Only 31% engaged in at least one sun-protection behavior; of the three behaviors, sunscreen use was the least prevalent, with 63% never using sunscreen. Multivariate logistic regressions revealed that gender, SES, and skin type were significant predictors of sun-protection behaviors.
Conclusions:
Tailored interventions to increase sun-protection behaviors among African Americans (men in particular) are needed.
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