Reducing ultraviolet radiation exposure in children

Abstract

Background: Project SUNWISE evaluated the effectiveness of a multicomponent intervention in reducing children's ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure.

Methods: Across four YMCAs, 48 aquatics classes (N = 169 children, mean age = 7) were randomly assigned to either the intervention or the control condition. The 6-week intervention included a UVR reduction curriculum presented at poolside by aquatics instructors and home-based activities for children and their parents. Outcome measures were (a) tanness-associated skin color dimensions assessed with a colorimeter, (b) specific daily solar protection behaviors of children as reported by parents, and (c) general solar protection behaviors.

Results: Controlling for intraclass clustering in all analyses, at posttest, no statistically significant between-group differences were found in tanness, daily solar protection scores, or general sunscreen use. The intervention group showed significantly greater general hat use relative to controls.

Conclusions: The intervention failed to impact most of the outcome measures. Supplementing the behavior-focused intervention package with environmental supports may be warranted.