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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Across the United States, there is a rising incidence of melanoma in the adolescent and young adult population. Collegiate athletes are at an increased risk of skin cancer due to prolonged, frequent exposure to ultra-violet radiation.OBJECTIVE: The aim of this quantitative study is to evaluate an improvement in knowledge, attitudes, and sun safety behaviors following an educational intervention for female collegiate athletes (N=81). METHODS: Data collection occurred in three phases: a pre-test issued before the face-to-face educational intervention, and a post-test issued immediately following the intervention. A final post-test was distributed three months after the intervention.RESULTS: Following an educational intervention, the collegiate athletes demonstrated an increase in knowledge as well as an improvement in attitudes and behaviors. The difference in knowledge between the pre-test and post-test was statistically significant (p<0.000). The increase in knowledge at the final post-test was also statistically significant (p<0.000). Approximately 79% of athletes applied sunscreen more often. CONCLUSION: Collegiate athletes are at an increased risk of skin cancer due to frequent, prolonged exposure to ultra-violet radiation during practices and competitions. Following an educational intervention, the female collegiate athletes experienced an improvement in knowledge, attitudes, and sun safety behaviors. Annual, routine sun safety education may reduce the risk of melanoma in this vulnerable population.