Lifestyle Factors Associated With Sunscreen Use Among Young Adults

Background. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States with melanoma rates increasing. Sunscreen use is an effective way to protect the skin and reduce skin cancer risk. Limited research has been conducted examining the relationship between sunscreen use and other lifestyle factors. Interventions aimed at multiple lifestyle factors have shown promise for prevention and reduced health care costs. Objective. This study explores the relationship between sunscreen use and lifestyle factors associated with mortality and morbidity among young adults. Lifestyle factors examined included physical activity, substance abuse, smoking, sexual behavior, unintentional injury, and mental well-being. Methods. A convenience sample of 747 college students was surveyed about sunscreen use and other health risks. Data were analyzed using SPSS 19. Results. White, female students older than 21 years were more likely to use sunscreen. Texting while driving, low life satisfaction, and binge drinking were associated with inadequate sunscreen use. Limitations. Convenience sampling limits generalizability and surveys are subject to recall, self-report, and self-selection bias. Conclusions. The findings provide the framework to develop multiple risk factor interventions.