Most people are not too concerned about skin cancer despite evidence showing a relatively small number of sunburns can trigger melanoma.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University used data from 6252 people to track patterns and perceptions of skin cancer risk.
They found more than 70 percent of the population were confident or very confident about their ability to exercise good skin health.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, experiencing five or more blistering sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 increases melanoma risk by 80 percent and nonmelanoma skin cancer risk by 68 percent.
The Florida survey found that 67.6 percent of people had no sunburns in the past year, while 30.3 percent had 1-5 sunburns.
“Activities like drinking alcohol, working outside or swimming were common among those who reported sunburns,” the study report said.
“Those with fair skin, a history of sun exposure or tanning bed use, and a genetic predisposition, are at higher risk. Key barriers to prevention include a lack of awareness, cultural preferences for tanned skin, and limited access to sun protection.”
The Florida Atlantic University study explored associations between reported number of sunburns and sociodemographic characteristics.
The findings, published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, showed most respondents had moderate concerns about skin cancer risk.
Only 9.1 percent reported being extremely worried, while the majority were either somewhat (26.6 percent) or slightly (25.6 percent) concerned.
“Adults (over 40) had lower sunburn risks, as did women,” the study report said.
“Disabled, unemployed, and multi-occupation participants reported fewer sunburns. Married or partnered individuals had higher risks of sunburn, while divorced or single participants had lower risks.
“Higher education levels, being Hispanic, Black, Asian or of mixed race were linked to lower sunburn risks. Higher income groups had significantly higher risks of sunburns, with the highest income group being more than four times more likely to report a sunburn.”
The full report is on the Florida Altantic University website.
