Multiple Levels of Influence in the Adoption of Sun Protection Policies in Elementary Schools in Massachusetts

By Alan C. Geller, MPH, RN, Jodie Zwirn, MPH, Linda Rutsch, MBA, MPH, Sue A. Gorham, Vish Viswanath, PhD & Karen M. Emmons, PhD

Published in Arch Dermatol 2008,144;4:491–496

Background

Sun exposure in childhood is strongly associated with the development of skin cancer later in life. These authors studied the factors that influence sun protection policy in elementary schools following the Guidelines of the Center for Disease Control.

Method

The authors interviewed representatives of elementary schools. The goal was to understand the factors that influence elementary school policy. Shade assessment of the school environment was conducted.

Different scheduling options to avoid the 10 AM to 2 PM time period were considered. Sunscreen use before outdoor activities was suggested.

Results

Interviews with key school officials were revealing. Many were open to new school sun protection polices but were often hamstrung with problems like relatively low funding and priority for sun protection. Only 1 school had a written school policy, and 99% of the schools scheduled outdoor activities during peak sun hours.

Conclusions

Overall, there was openness to the ideas of developing a few basic practices. It was suggested that schools would be more likely to adopt sun protection practices rather than polices.

Editor note

We still have a long way to go. Since much of the sun damage occurs before the age of 20, practices such as wearing SPF clothes and hats, using sunscreens, adding shade to the recess areas and not recessing in peak sun hours will help reduce sun damage and subsequent skin cancers. This education in the schools will care over into the home.

Reprint requests: Dr. David B. Buller, Center for Health Communication, AMC Cancer Research Center, 1600 Pierce Street, Denver, CO 80214.