DPSEEA Use in an Environment and Health Information System: UV and Melanoma in Europe

Abstract

ISEE-397 Objective: Using the DPSEEA model and the available results of the data collected in 26 European countries this case study aims to delineate ways to improve and harmonize policy as well as exposure and health data collection, assessment and monitoring, concerning the issue of UV excessive exposure and melanoma prevention. Material and Methods: Two indicators have been developed in the WHO-ENHIS project. “Incidence of melanoma” gives an impression of melanoma rates and trends. “Policies to reduce children's exposure to UV” assesses the current UV protection policy situation in European countries. The use of the DPSEEA model (Driving Forces - Pressures - State - Exposure - Effects - Actions) allows to identify key issues that have to be monitored according the international prevention program recommendations and currently available knowledge concerning UV exposure, melanoma risk, and their social determinants. Results: In European countries, development of public health policies on UV protection and exposure reduction has so far been a rather heterogeneous process with major differences between countries. Parallel tendencies show the melanoma incidence concerning differences in geographic distribution and temporal evolution. Comparing the results show major opportunities to improve and harmonize policies concerning this issue among European countries. On the basis of the available information, it is possible to identify the key issues in the process of the evolution of the public health problem that have to be monitored and to propose possible indicators. Conclusions: Improving and harmonizing UV exposure assessment and evaluation of exposure determinants in European countries is the first further step. UV indicators, exposure (E) and pressure (P) in the first place, should be further developed according to the DPSEEA model. This case study indicates the need for a standardized environmental health information system at the European scale.