RC Grant Findings: Skin Cancer Risk Factors Among Athletes and Coaches in Alabama

Purpose

Over 7 million high school students participate in athletics annually and are at elevated risk for UV radiation. Four purposes guided the research project: (a) Identify risk of increased UV exposure among athletes; (b) assess role modeling behaviors for skin cancer prevention among coaches; (c) assess sun protection information within the state curriculum; and (d) advocate for increased sun protection of athletes.

Methods

Risk of increased UV exposure among adolescent athletes in AL was determined in two phases: Reviewing cancer content of state-approved health texts and estimating UV exposure among athletes and coaches during practice and competition. Administering surveys to a statewide sample of secondary school coaches, teachers, and members of school-level wellness teams.

Analysis/Results

Two researchers determined percentages of cancer content in state-approved health textbooks by reviewing tables of contents, glossaries, and all pages. Review of the state course of study reviewed a single mention of skin cancer within the K-12 curriculum standards. The total content dedicated to six cancers in state-approved textbooks was <1%. Three cancers were most frequently included in textbooks (lung, skin and oral cavity/pharynx). The highest percentage of content dedicated to skin cancer was 0.025%; the lowest percentage of content was 0.002%.

350 coaches answered the survey; most coached softball or baseball. Mean hours spent outdoors during peak UV radiation for practice and competition varied between 1.6 and 3.4. Three of six sun protection practices were most commonly reported: wearing sunglasses, long pants, and a wide brimmed hat. Coaches estimated mean hours adolescent athletes spent outdoors during peak UV radiation as between 1.8 and 2.4. Descriptive statistics will indicate sun exposure related to specific sports and geographic location of the schools.

Conclusions

Results reveal actions to reduce excessive sun exposure as a shared responsibility of athletes and coaches. This research project relates to AAPAR's mission of promoting active lifestyles with a focus on safety and risk management and AAHE Resolution, Skin Cancer Prevention within Health Education. Results will be used to teach others how exposure to high UV levels increases risks of skin damage, melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer.