Sun-Protection Behaviors Among African Americans

Background: Data suggest that the prevalence of sun-protection behaviors is low (44%) among African, Americans; the samples in such studies, however, tended to be small or nonrepresentative. Purpose: This article aims to examine the prevalence and correlates of sun-protection behaviors among a large, random, statewide sample of African-American adults living in California to ascertain behavioral patterns and highlight directions for targeted interventions. Methods: From September 2006 through May 2008, an anonymous health survey collected data on sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brim hat use among a random sample of 2187 African-American adults, and assessed demographic, regional, skin type, and other potential correlates of these behaviors. The analysis was conducted in 2009. Results: Only 31% engaged in at least one sun-protection behavior; of the three behaviors, sunscreen use was the least prevalent, with 63% never using sunscreen. Multivariate logistic regressions revealed that gender, SES, and skin type were significant predictors of sun-protection behaviors. Conclusions: Tailored interventions to increase sun-protection behaviors among African Americans (men in particular) are needed. (Am J Prev Med 2010;38(3):288-295) (C) 2010 American Journal of Preventive Medicine