Skin cancer prevention campaign aimed at beachgoers on the C osta del S ol (southern S pain)

• Published in: International journal of dermatology Vol. 53; no. 11
• Main Authors: de Troya‐Martín, Magdalena, Delgado‐Sánchez, Nuria, Blázquez‐Sánchez, Nuria, Ortega‐Tudela, Gregorio, Toribio‐Montero, Juan Carlos, Jabalera‐Mesa, Maria Lourdes, Ríos‐Almellones, Inmaculada, Rivas‐Ruiz, Francisco
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.11.2014
• ISSN: 0011-9059; 1365-4632
• DOI: 10.1111/ijd.12389

Abstract Background Sunbathing on the beach is one of the main risks for skin cancer. Objective In the summer of 2010, a skin cancer prevention campaign aimed at beachgoers was undertaken on the western C osta del S ol (southern S pain). Methods The campaign took place on beaches during J uly and A ugust. A multicomponent intervention was conducted by a dermatologist and other healthcare professionals, including: (1) interviews about risk factors and sun protection habits; (2) full skin examination using dermoscopy; (3) health advice plus educational brochure; (4) sunscreen workshop plus free samples; and (5) survey about satisfaction and behavioral intentions. A journalism and health prize was offered to encourage mass media coverage. Results Four hundred and seven beachgoers (56% tourists) were recruited during the campaign, mean age 45 years. Most of the participants reported high‐risk sun exposure and revealed high rates of clinically suspicious lesions of skin cancer (8.1%), melanoma (2.9%), actinic keratosis (10.2%), and atypical nevus (7.6%). The campaign was highly appreciated by the participants and followed not only by local but also regional and national media. Conclusion Beachgoers are a strategic target to prevent skin cancer. Beaches are also suitable places to develop a skin cancer prevention campaign, allowing direct access to the high‐risk population for surveying, health behavior education, and screening. Several keys may be useful to optimize results as the design of a personalized intervention of proven efficacy, provision of a trained healthcare team, and development of an attractive strategy for the mass media.