Ultraviolet radiation and safety behaviours at an outdoor community event

The incidence of skin cancer is rising drastically and is believed to be at epidemic proportions. Although preventive efforts have focused mainly on increasing public knowledge of the dangers associated with ultraviolet radiation, increased knowledge does not consistently translate into safe sun practices. The present study provided a "snapshot" of knowledge, attitudes and actual behaviour related to sun safety in a sample of 2,064 individuals attending a major community event. Despite almost uniform acknowledgement of a sun-cancer link, and the belief that certain behaviours can reduce the chances of getting skin cancer, only 38% of respondents reported wearing sun screen. Differences in sun safe behaviours were observed across age groups. The present results emphasize the need to target behaviours as well as knowledge and attitudes regarding sun safety.