Face-to-face Sun Protection Training and Text Messages Improve Sun Protection Behaviour in Adolescent Organ...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Transplantation
• Dermatology
• Public Health

Background:

• Adolescent organ transplant recipients face a heightened risk of skin cancer.
• Effective sun protection strategies are crucial for this vulnerable population.
• Existing methods for delivering health information may not fully engage adolescents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the technical feasibility of using short messaging service (SMS) for sun protection recommendations.
• To evaluate the acceptability of SMS-based sun protection advice among adolescent transplant recipients.
• To measure changes in sun-protective knowledge and behavior following the intervention.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-six adolescent organ transplant recipients (ages 13-22) received in-person sun protection training.
• Participants received weekly SMS reminders regarding sun protection for four weeks.
• Sun-protective knowledge and behaviors were assessed using questionnaires and interviews before and after the intervention.

Main Results:

• 95% of participants regularly checked their text messages.
• Knowledge of the UV-index significantly improved, with correct understanding increasing from 16% pre-intervention to 74% post-intervention.
• The SMS intervention was found to be technically feasible and well-accepted by the participants.

Conclusions:

• SMS-based sun protection recommendations are a viable and acceptable method for adolescent organ transplant recipients.
• This intervention has the potential to enhance sun-protective knowledge and behaviors in this at-risk group.
• Further research can explore broader implementation of mobile health strategies in transplant care.