Evaluating the Knowledge, Attitude and Function of Isfahan High-School Students to Protect against Skin Cancer and Sun Rays

Document Type : Original Article (s)

Authors

1 Surgeon, Cancer Control Office, Isfahan Province Health Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Skin and Stem Cell Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran AND Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

3 Associate Professor, Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

4 General Practitioner, Cancer Control Office, Isfahan Province Health Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

5 Nurse, Cancer Control Office, Isfahan Province Health Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

6 General Practitioner, Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Background: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Iran and Isfahan. Behaviors taken to prevent skin cancer, especially in childhood and adolescence, have an effective role in prevention of skin cancer in the future. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude andfunction of  high school students in Isfahan Province.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study in 2012 over 1139 high school students in Isfahan Province. Data collected using a valid and reliable researcher-made questionnaires. Cluster random sampling method was used and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings: Overall, subjects had good knowledge (52.9%), poor attitude (28.3%) and poor function (27.5%) about skin cancer and protection against the sun rays.Conclusions: Conducting an intervention based on protection motivation theory to improve students' attitudes and behaviors is recommended to prevent skin cancer.

Keywords

References

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Journal of Isfahan Medical School
Volume 31, Issue 269 - Serial Number 269
November and December 2014
Pages 2264-2270

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History

  • Receive Date: 20 October 2013
  • Revise Date: 01 November 2024
  • Accept Date: 06 April 2022

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