Knowledge Levels of Kindergarten Teachers About Skin Cancer, Sun Protection Behaviors, and Affecting Factors.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge level of kindergarten teachers regarding skin cancer, the sun protection behaviors they exhibit for themselves/their students, and the affecting factors. This descriptive study was carried out in the Mediterranean region in a province located by the sea. The universe of the study consisted of 181 teachers working in kindergartens, and data were collected from the 81% who agreed to participate in the study. The mean Skin Cancer and Sun Knowledge Scale of the teachers was 12.50 ± 3.27 (range 0-25) and the mean Sun Protection Behavior Scale score was 24.78 ± 6.26 (range 8-40). When the Sun Protection Behavior Scale sub-dimensions were analyzed, the teachers' mean score of refraining from the sun was 13.02 ± 2.02, sunscreen use was 9.88 ± 4.46, and hat use was 5.13 ± 2.52. Significant positive correlations were found between the teachers' knowledge scores and refraining from the sun (r = 0.222; p = 0.007) and sunscreen use (r = 0.243; p = 0.003). The least used sun protection practice of the teachers regarding the students was wearing sunglasses (64.8%) and the most used practice was remaining in the shade (75.9%). The level of teachers' knowledge about skin cancer and sun protection and their behavior regarding sun protection for themselves were moderate, but the sun protection behaviors they use for their students were inadequate. Thus, educational programs about sun exposure are needed in schools and non-formal education institutions.