Understanding the impact of community-based sun safety interventions on a college campus in Texas.

Objective

Examine the impact of a community-based, multi-component sun intervention on the campus of Lee College in Baytown, Texas.

Participants

735 respondents completed the survey as part of a range of campus topics.

Methods

Survey data on the program were gathered through an emailed campus-wide survey to better understand the community's perceptions and awareness as well as campaign effectiveness over time.

Results

Sun safety self-efficacy and awareness of the importance of sun safety behaviors were high in the community. Students reported a lower level of sun safety self-efficacy than employees. Open-ended responses also offered insight into complex views some community members hold about sun-safety behavior, raising questions about the effectiveness of sunscreen and the need for vitamin D.

Conclusions

The paper found high awareness of sun-safe behaviors, high self-efficacy in taking personal action, and appreciation for the institutional effort to care for the community.