Design and methods for a cluster randomized trial of the Sunless Study: A skin cancer prevention intervention promoting sunless tanning among beach visitors
2009

Sunless Study: A Skin Cancer Prevention Intervention

Sample size: 250 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Sherry L Pagoto, Kristin L Schneider, Jessica Oleski, Jamie S Bodenlos, Philip Merriam, Yunsheng Ma

Primary Institution: University of Massachusetts Medical School

Hypothesis

Can promoting sunless tanning reduce sunbathing frequency among beach visitors?

Conclusion

The study aims to determine if a beach-based intervention promoting sunless tanning is more effective than a control group in reducing sunbathing frequency.

Supporting Evidence

  • Skin cancer is the most prevalent yet preventable cancer in the US.
  • Rates of unprotected sun exposure remain high despite awareness of risks.
  • Sunless tanning products may provide a safe alternative to sunbathing.

Takeaway

This study is trying to see if using sunless tanning products can help people stop sunbathing and getting sunburned.

Methodology

A cluster randomized trial comparing a sunless tanning intervention to a control group among female beach visitors.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in self-reported sunbathing behavior.

Limitations

The study only includes female participants and may not generalize to other demographics.

Participant Demographics

Female beach visitors aged 18-75 from two public beaches in eastern Massachusetts.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-9-50

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