Research Article
Neetal Bhave, Katie Reidy, Ran
Abstract
Background: Sun exposure, particularly during childhood, is an important contributing factor in the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Relying on sunscreen as the sole method of sun protection is problematic and may provide insufficient sun protection for the user due to failure to protect some areas of the body, and wearing off with physical activities like swimming. The response of caregivers of children aged 2-6 years old to anticipatory guidance by pediatricians and pediatric nurse practitioners regarding sun protection, especially using sun protective swim shirts (swim shirts), was evaluated. Study design: A convenience sample of caregivers completed a self-report questionnaire at three offices of a suburban pediatric practice from June to August 2014. Clinicians counseled caregivers on sun protection practices and provided caregivers an anticipatory guidance tip sheet with a voucher to obtain online a free swim shirt for their child. Voucher redemption and having a swim shirt were assessed. Results: Pediatric clinicians delivered the sun protection recommendations during well-child visits in less than 2 minutes. Caregivers completed 824 questionnaires across the three clinical sites. Caregivers were more likely to redeem a swim shirt for a male child between the ages of 2 and 6 years old (P=. 045). Female caregivers, who completed college or had a graduate degree, were more likely to obtain the swim shirt. (P=. 010) Additionally, caregivers were prompted by sunny weather to redeem a swim shirt for their child. Hispanic caregivers were less likely to redeem a voucher than others (P<.05) Conclusions: Swim shirt redemption by caregivers of children aged 2 to 6 years was related to sunny weather, and the gender of the child.