Adolescent sun protection at secondary school athletic sporting events - a misnomer

• Main Authors: Bronwen M. McNoe (Author), Anthony I. Reeder (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Elsevier, 2016-08-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 1753-6405; 1326-0200; 10.1111/1753-6405.12512
• Keywords: sun protection; secondary schools; teenager; skin cancer prevention; Public aspects of medicine; RA1-1270
• Source: Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, Vol 40, Iss 4, Pp 313-315 (2016)

Abstract Objective: To observe the sun‐protective practices of students and staff and related aspects of the physical environment at secondary school athletics days. Methods: This observational study of 1,225 students and 215 adult supervisors examined the use of sun‐protective items (hats, clothing coverage, sunglasses), sunscreen provision and shade. Results: Sun‐protective behaviour was poor with only 3% of students and 25% of adult supervisors wearing a sun‐protective hat. Shade was not available to most students, either as competitors or while waiting to compete. Sunscreen provision was 50%. Conclusion: Portable shade for students waiting to compete should be available at competitive events. Students should be encouraged to wear sun‐protective hats and clothing while not competing and SPF30+ broad‐spectrum sunscreen should always be provided. Guidelines for adult supervisors should be developed so they role model appropriate sun protection.