Sun-Safety Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviour in Western Saudi Arabia: Implications for Psycho-Oncology Prevention...

Melanoma, a highly aggressive skin cancer, is strongly linked to ultraviolet (UV) exposure. Despite high UV levels in Saudi Arabia, public awareness and adherence to melanoma preventive behaviours remain underexplored. This study assessed knowledge (factual accuracy), attitudes, and sun-protective practices among adults in the western region of Saudi Arabia, investigating demographic and gender-specific differences.

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from April to May 2024, recruiting 553 participants aged 18-80 years through convenience sampling. A validated 46-item questionnaire assessed melanoma knowledge, risk perception, sun exposure patterns, and adherence to preventive behaviours. Descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA were used to analyse differences based on age, gender, education, employment, and healthcare affiliation.

Moderate awareness of melanoma was observed (mean = 2.28, 5-point Likert scale), with 73.2% of participants recognising sunlight as a risk factor for skin cancer. However, misconceptions were widespread, including beliefs that short-term sun exposure is harmless (36%) and that sunscreen is unnecessary on cloudy days (43.8%). Females and younger participants (18-35 years) demonstrated significantly higher knowledge (p < 0.001 and p = 0.036, respectively) and risk perception; however, adherence to sun-protective behaviours (e.g., sunscreen re-application, protective clothing) was suboptimal across all groups (mean = 2.67). Education level influenced awareness (p = 0.031), but did not impact behaviour.

Despite moderate awareness, significant knowledge gaps and a knowledge-action gap hinder melanoma prevention in this high-UV region. Culturally tailored interventions targeting misconceptions and behavioural barriers, particularly among males and individuals with lower educational attainment, are essential. These findings inform the development of evidence-based strategies to reduce melanoma risk in Saudi Arabia and similar high-UV settings.