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. 2019 Sep 16;2(4):547-553.
doi: 10.1093/jamiaopen/ooz034. eCollection 2019 Dec.

Toward a precision behavioral medicine approach to addressing high-risk sun exposure: a qualitative analysis

Tammy K Stump  1 , Bonnie Spring  1 , Sara Hoffman Marchese  1 , Nabil Alshurafa  1 , June K Robinson  2   3
Affiliations

Toward a precision behavioral medicine approach to addressing high-risk sun exposure: a qualitative analysis

Tammy K Stump et al. JAMIA Open. .

Abstract

Objectives: Precision behavioral medicine techniques integrating wearable ultraviolet radiation (UVR) sensors may help individuals avoid sun exposure that places them at-risk for skin cancer. As a preliminary step in our patient-centered process of developing a just-in-time adaptive intervention, this study evaluated reactions and preferences to UVR sensors among melanoma survivors.

Materials and methods: Early stage adult melanoma survivors were recruited for a focus group (n = 11) or 10-day observational study, which included daily wearing a UVR sensor and sun exposure surveys (n = 39). Both the focus group moderator guide and observational study exit interviews included questions on UVR sensing as a potential intervention strategy. These responses were transcribed and coded using an inductive strategy.

Results: Most observational study participants (84.6%) said they would find information provided by UVR sensors to be useful to help them learn about how specific conditions (eg, clouds, location) impact sun exposure and provide in-the-moment alerts. Focus group participants expressed enthusiasm for UVR information and identified preferred qualities of a UVR sensor, such as small size and integration with other devices. Participants in both studies indicated concern that UVR feedback may be difficult to interpret and some expressed that a UVR sensor may not be convenient or desirable to wear in daily life.

Discussion: Melanoma survivors believe that personalized UVR exposure information could improve their sun protection and want this information delivered in a method that is meaningful and actionable.

Conclusion: UVR sensing is a promising component of a precision behavioral medicine strategy to reduce skin cancer risk.

Keywords: just-in-time adaptive intervention; mobile health; precision medicine; sun protection; ultraviolet radiation.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Basic components of a just-in-time adaptive intervention for high-risk sun exposure.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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