Catching the sun: an investigation of sun-exposure and skin protective behaviour

This study, conducted at the end of a UK heatwave, used qualitative and quantitative questionnaire measures to investigate sun protection in the context of the potentially conflicting attractions of sun exposure. It examined attitudes to the good weather, beliefs about the benefits and harmful effects of the sun and perceptions of risk amongst a sample of students in the UK. Participants could think of more benefits than harmful effects of the sun for both their health and appearance. Most enjoyed sunbathing, protected themselves inadequately and did not intend to change this behaviour. Those who knew someone who had suffered skin cancer, who perceived higher risk and who wrote more about the harmful effects of skin cancer on their appearance (but not their health) were more likely to engage in skin protective behaviours.