Measures of sun exposure and sun protection practices for behavioral and epidemiologic research Journal Article


Authors: Glanz, K.; Yaroch, A. L.; Dancel, M.; Saraiya, M.; Crane, L. A.; Buller, D. B.; Manne, S.; O'Riordan, D. L.; Heckman, C. J.; Hay, J.; Robinson, J. K.
Article Title: Measures of sun exposure and sun protection practices for behavioral and epidemiologic research
Abstract: Objective: To develop, in a collaborative project, core measures of sun exposure and sun protection habits, since the lack of standard outcome measures hampers comparison of population surveys and interventions used in skin cancer prevention research. Design: A work group of investigators evaluated available questionnaire measures of sun exposure and protection. Their deliberations led to a proposed set of core questionnaire items for adults, adolescents aged 11 to 17 years, and children 10 years or younger. These core items were used in cognitive testing by the investigators. Cross-site summaries of methods, response samples, and descriptive data were prepared. Setting: Nine locations across the United States. Participants: The study population comprised 81 individuals. Results: No unusual response patterns were detected in any of the respondent groups or for any specific question. Some revisions to the survey items resulted from the need for clarification or emphasis of frames of reference such as adding or underlining key phrases in a question. Conclusions: The combination of expert review followed by cognitive interviewing yielded standardized core survey items with good clarity and applicability for measuring sun exposure and sun protection behaviors across a broad range of populations. They are appropriate for studies tracking morbidity and/or mortality and evaluating prevention program effects. ©2008 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
Keywords: adolescent; adult; child; controlled study; school child; aged; middle aged; major clinical study; united states; outcome assessment; sunscreen; sun exposure; skin neoplasms; skin cancer; health behavior; health survey; questionnaires; interviews as topic; epidemiologic methods; research; environmental exposure; sunlight; radiation protection; environmental monitoring
Journal Title: Archives of Dermatology
Volume: 144
Issue: 2
ISSN: 0003-987X
Publisher: American Medical Association  
Date Published: 2008-02-01
Start Page: 217
End Page: 222
Language: English
DOI: 10.1001/archdermatol.2007.46
PUBMED: 18283179
PROVIDER: scopus
DOI/URL:
Notes: --- - "Cited By (since 1996): 31" - "Export Date: 17 November 2011" - "CODEN: ARDEA" - "Source: Scopus"
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  1. Jennifer L Hay
    266 Hay