Shade as an Environmental Design Tool for Skin Cancer Prevention

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Environmental Design
• Architecture

Background:

• Limited research exists on utilizing shade for skin cancer prevention within the built environment.
• There is a need to bridge the gap between architectural practices and public health strategies for sun protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing research on shade design, utilization, and policies for skin cancer prevention.
• To highlight the intersection of architectural design and public health in creating sun-safe environments.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted, analyzing studies on shade from January 1, 1996, to December 31, 2017.
• The review focused on factors influencing shade's sun-protective qualities and shade provision strategies.

Main Results:

• Shade effectiveness is influenced by structural materials, size, shape, placement, surrounding environment, and weather.
• Provision of shade in outdoor areas may correlate with increased shade usage.
• Available tools can aid in shade auditing and design; however, shade policies are often setting-specific with limited implementation data.

Conclusions:

• Integrating shade planning into urban design, community planning, and architecture is crucial for public health.
• A multidisciplinary approach involving architects and public health professionals is necessary to maximize the impact of shade interventions.
• Further research is needed on the implementation and effectiveness of shade policies.