Under Cover Skin Cancer Prevention Project: A community-based initiative in three Texas cities Academic Article uri icon

abstract

  • The Under Cover Skin Cancer Prevention Project is a unique community-based effort aimed at increasing awareness about the harmful effects of the sun, while promoting risk-reduction strategies for individuals at high risk. The cornerstone of the project is an ultraviolet (UV) light meter that measures the intensity of the sun's UV-B rays. Readings taken four times a day in Houston, Austin and Corpus Christi are translated into a scale of one to 10 with corresponding behavioral recommendations. For example, a reading of one indicates minimal risk for skin damage, while readings of five and higher suggest the use of a sunscreen rated SPF 15, along with other risk-reduction strategies. 'Media partners', including newspapers, television and radio stations, are recruited from each city to disseminate the readings. A toll-free telephone line providing readings and access to free educational materials is al so maintained. The methodology for operating the program, disseminating the readings and providing supplemental education projects are discussed, along with pilot telephone survey results (N = 501) conducted in 1990 that have been utilized to guide the program's education and behavior change goals. The project is a collaborative effort of the Division of Cancer Prevention and the Office of Public Affairs at The University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, U.S.A.

published proceedings

  • Skin Cancer

author list (cited authors)

  • Boutwell, W. B., Cummings, S. R., Ward, J., Watson, K. D., & Riedel, T

complete list of authors

  • Boutwell, WB||Cummings, SR||Ward, JAD||Watson, KD||Riedel, T

publication date

  • January 1993