Ultraviolet radiation exposure among Belgrade high school students: analysis of knowledge, attitudes and behaviour

Background The incidence of melanoma has been increasing worldwide. Extended UV exposure during childhood or adolescence significantly increases the probability of skin cancer in adulthood. Objective The objective of this study was to analyse knowledge, attitudes and behaviour regarding exposure to natural and artificial UV radiation among Belgrade high school students. Methods The study was conducted using a questionnaire among 549 students of 3rd and 4th grade (17 and 18 years of age) in four Belgrade high schools. The questionnaire had 32 questions: questions about gender, date and month of birth and parents' education, nine questions regarding sunbed use, nine questions regarding behaviour in the sun during summer months, four questions regarding personal and family history and skin phototype and seven questions regarding attitude and general knowledge about effects of UV radiation. Assessment of frequency rate and relative numbers was used as methods of descriptive statistics. Results As many as 39% of participants had used a sunbed at least once, 38% plan on using it in the future. One quarter spends more than 3 hours in the sun on the beach during summer without any protection, and only one-third of participants had not experienced sunburn during last summer. Only one-half of students know what melanoma is, while 37% stated that they do not know. Conclusion General awareness of risk factors regarding sun exposure as well as general knowledge about melanoma is not on a high level among Belgrade high school students. Therefore, besides legislative measures, it is extremely important to conduct adequate education programmes in high schools.