Design and implementation of a health promotion program to prevent the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation at primary school students of rural areas of Greece

Abstract

<p class="abstract"><strong>Background:</strong> <span lang="EN-IN">Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer presenting with a dramatic increase in its incidence among Caucasian populations worldwide. Primary prevention in childhood and early detection is important in reducing the risk of skin cancer later in life.</span>The o<span lang="EN-IN">bjectives of the study were to investigate the effect of a focused educational intervention in school children aiming to increase their knowledge about the harmful effects of sun exposure and promote prevention behaviors regarding skin cancer</span></p><p class="abstract"><strong>Methods:</strong> <span lang="EN-IN">The study consisted of a before/after 6-month assessment of a school intervention program applied in two hundred children from four primary Schools (Grades 3-6) at a rural area in Western Greece. The program included the presentation and distribution of educational material (activity guide, manual for pupils, posters). A detailed questionnaire with close-ended questions was distributed before and after the intervention. Both between and in groups analysis was conducted</span>.<strong></strong></p><p class="abstract"><strong>Results:</strong> <span lang="EN-IN">Of the participating pupils, 48% were boys, whereas 78.5% reported a fair skin complexion and 79% reported freckles and 1-20 nevi. After the intervention, an increased number of pupils were taught to enjoy sun exposure while avoiding its harmful effects. A significantly greater number of children stated proper use of sunscreen (74% vs. 31%, p=0.001) and sun protection (that avoided going outside especially at the intense hours of daily UV exposure (65% vs. 25.5% prior to the intervention). Melanoma awareness was also significantly raised. </span></p><p class="abstract"><strong>Conclusions:</strong> <span lang="EN-IN">Students’ knowledge about the effects of sun exposure as well as the need for sun protection increased following a targeted and well-designed educational intervention. The development of preventive educational programs on skin cancer for school children is important to increase awareness in this sensitive age group.</span></p>