UICC World Cancer Congress 2006

Objective: Documented research indicates that intermittent blistering sunburns in youth prior to age 18 results in an increased lifetime risk for developing melanoma, the more deadly skin cancer. This knowledge underscores the importance of providing young people with comprehensive information on the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, and the importance of skin cancer prevention before overexposure to UV occurs. Methods: In response to this need, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center has designed an educational module, Project S.A.F.E.T.Y. (Sun Awareness For Educating Today's Youth), that focuses on increasing sun safe behaviors through motivational and instructional strategies. The module, in interactive CD-ROM format, is designed for use in school classrooms to deliver accurate information concerning the consequences of overexposure to ultraviolet radiation and its role in the development of skin cancer. Results: Evaluation of the module indicates that it is effective in changing attitudes and behavior of youth regarding sun exposure. Currently, a nationwide dissemination of the Project S.A.F.E.T.Y. module is underway in the United States, beginning with those States located below 37° latitude, where the incidence of skin cancer is highest. To date, 25,800 Project S.A.F.E.T.Y. modules have been distributed to school classrooms. The presentation will include lessons learned by the authors regarding (a) design of prevention material in curricular format to effectively impact a youth and adolescent target audience, and (b) how to promote classroom utilization of the module's prevention message. The Project S.A.F.E.T.Y. education program provides an excellent example of transforming knowledge into action.