Assessment of knowledge about the effects of UV radiation on health behaviors associated with sunbathing in gymnasium students

Przegl Epidemiol. 2016;70(1):65-70, 141-5.
[Article in English, Polish]

Abstract

Introduction: The health behaviors or health-related behaviors is behavior (or activity) that are part of everyday life, affecting the health of the individual. An example of the behavior of health is also sunbathing, or exposing the body to excessive solar radiation dosage. It may be positive and negative effects on health.

Aim: Evaluation of knowledge about gymnasium students. The impact of UV radiation on health and health behaviors associated with sunbathing.

Material and methods: The study was a diagnostic survey, with author's questionnaire. The sample was comprised students from classes II and III. A total of 312 questionnaires were collected among 181 girls and 131 boys. Used purposeful sampling. Results were considered statistically significant at p < 0.05.

Results: There is a statistically significant relationship between the stated sunbathing to get a sun tan, and sex of the respondent (p = 0.0002). Definitely more girls (77.35%) admit that tans in the sun to get a tan as compared to boys (58.02%).

Conclusion: It is recommended that further research aimed at checking the causes and incidence of sunburn among young people. Consideration should be given to create and implement the appropriate health programs taking about tanning that could be implemented under the School Health Promotion Program, or to supplement this knowledge on subjects such as Biology or Nature.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / psychology*
  • Attitude to Health
  • Female
  • Health Behavior*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Skin Neoplasms / etiology
  • Skin Neoplasms / prevention & control
  • Sunbathing / psychology*
  • Sunburn / etiology
  • Sunburn / prevention & control*
  • Ultraviolet Rays / adverse effects*